Athens is gearing up for its annual Carnival celebration, and from February 15th to March 18th, the city will be bursting with vibrant energy, offering a diverse program for everyone. Whether you're young or old, there's something for you to experience the rich Greek culture and celebrate in true festive spirit!

Highlights of the Athens Carnival

80 events across 55 locations: Grip yourself in a diverse program - from concerts and music routes to children's activities and traditional events.

Something for everyone: Children can participate in workshops and educational programs, while adults can enjoy musical performances, theatrical shows, and lively carnival parades.

Credits: Municipality of Athens

Time to embrace tradition: Witness the rich cultural heritage of Greece through traditional carnival customs and vibrant parades showcasing eclectic music, dances, and costumes from different regions.

Grand finale: Celebrate the end of the carnival with a grand procession in the city center featuring captivating performers and entertainers.

Clean Monday celebration: Fly kites and enjoy a special "Koulouma" feast on Filopappos Hill on March 18th.

Credits: Municipality of Athens

Get a Detailed Glimpse of the Festivities

March 7th: Experience Tsiknopepti at Varvakeio Market and Monastiraki Square, featuring live music, carnival festivities, and a performance representing the "Ribbons of Naxos" tradition.

Little Masquerades Take Over: Children can participate in fun activities and learn about carnival customs at various cultural spaces and museums.

Carnival Routes: Witness vibrant parades throughout the city showcasing traditional music, dances, and costumes from different regions of Greece.

Music and Entertainment Galore: Enjoy concerts, theatrical performances, and dance events throughout the carnival days.

Recap

So mark your calendars on Thursday March 7th - music and tradition fill the air as the Philharmonic Orchestra of Athens performs at Varvakeio Market, followed by a carnival route led by the Cultural Society of Orchestral Art BAKHAI. Don't miss their performance reenacting the Cordellata of Naxos tradition at Kotzia Square before ending at Monastiraki Square for lively music by the Charisma band and Isidoros Pateros. 

Beyond the main events, explore the carnival through museum-educational programs, workshops, and interactive sessions at various institutions like the Art Gallery and the Children's Museum of Athens. These sessions encompass activities like visual arts, construction, music, theater, and more.

Credits: Municipality of Athens

Where to next? Take up the festive mood across various squares and parks, including Gyzi, Plyta, and Agios Georgios. Enjoy music, games, and activities for all ages, culminating in the grand finale celebration at Zappeion on Sunday, March 17th. This traditional rendezvous for young carnivalists features music, dancing, circus performers, and much more. 

To discover the program of events and specific timings, visit the website of the Municipality of Athens. 

Last but not least, you can always delve into the rich tapestry of the Athens Carnival with Athens Walking Tours! Discover the captivating myths, ancient pagan customs, and fascinating backstories behind the vibrant costumes, many rooted in the traditions of ancient Greece. Walk the very streets and archaeological sites where Athenians once celebrated their festive rituals in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine, joy, and life. Explore the connection to the celebration of "Apokria," which, in the Greek Orthodox (byzantine) context, signifies "fasting" or "taking distance from meat," forming the unique cultural tapestry of this vibrant event. Book your tour now and join the story!