Carnival Parades in Athens 2024

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 set up for your young ones. Parties, street performances and lots more seal the carnival deal, all with free entrance. Check out our list of events here.

This year, the two weekends leading up to Clean Monday are dedicated to carnival traditions from all over Greece. Colourful festive parades will fill the streets of the city, so don your brightest costume and join in the fun at various locations around Athens.  

Sunday March 10th offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate. Highlights of the day include the traditional songs and dances of Zante, with a parade starting at Acropolis Metro Station at 11 am and ending at Monastiraki Square. In Votanikos there is another party, one that goes down memory lane and stirs things up with traditional Greek instruments. 

Saturday March 16th at noon has surprises in store for those of you who will be at Philopappou Hill or the Lamprini area. Philopappou Hill will be the starting point of an imaginary trip to Rio via a musical parade with Brazilian sounds. In Lamprini, a re-enactment of traditional celebrations will transport visitors to the island of Lesvos.

Syntagma Square welcomes the final parade on Sunday, March 17th at 6pm with festive Brazilian sounds that will lead you to Monastiraki Square. Stock up on confetti and join the celebrations!

For your own convenience, we suggest checking directly with the event organiser or host venue for confirmation or with Culture is Athens.