Carnival Celebrations at Athenian Squares

It’s time for colourful costumes, confetti explosions and dancing in the streets. Apokries (our version of carnival) is just around the corner which means that the city is getting ready for a three-week celebration that allows for nothing except good vibes. The City of Athens has planned a jam-packed festive agenda for all types, with all sorts of events spread around every neighbourhood. Follow the sound of the bands playing at the city’s squares, take part in a street parade or a folklore custom revival, and sign up for face-painting shenanigans or any of the numerous games planned for your young ones. Parties, street performances and lots more seal the carnival deal, all with free entrance. Check our list of events here.

Let’s talk music. The party starts on Tsiknopempti (February 16th), or Smoky Thursday. Traditional satiric dances from Thrace take over the area between Kotzia Square and Monastiraki Square. At the same time, the City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra turns up the volume at the Central Food Market aka Varvakios Agora. From there on, a musical event by the City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra is held every day at different Athenian squares, from Pangrati, to Syntagma, to Pedion tou Areos. Notably, the Big Band, the amazing jazz band of the City of Athens, is to perform at Monastiraki Square on February 25th. 

A special surprise awaits you on Clean Monday, the 27th: a Greek panigiri, a traditional Greek festival with dancing and music, one like nothing you’ve experienced before. The place is Philopappou Hill and the feast will be soundtracked by popular Greek folk singer Gogo Tsamba.

Friday 17/02, Plita Square, City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra
Monday 20/02 Thissio, City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra
Tuesday 21/02 Dionisiou Areopagitou, City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra
Thursday 23/02 Syntagma Square, City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra
Friday 24/02, Plaka, City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra