Athens has never been shy about reinvention – or about putting that reinvention on public view. Since 1 May, the fourth annual This Is Athens City Festival has been scattering twilight concerts, curb-side film screenings, pop-up dance floors, and big-think salons across every compass point of the capital. The result is a month-long mixtape of art, ideas, and unfiltered joie de vivre that seeps into parks, markets, rooftops, and waterfronts from dawn till well past midnight.
Festival Director Nikos Barlas describes this year’s edition as “as richly layered as the city itself, a kind of cultural palimpsest where antiquity and avant-garde overlap at every turn.” Below, he unpacks that vision – while we flag 20 essential happenings drawn from the 200-strong roster, giving you a fast-track pass to the festival’s irresistible core and the many stories Athens is ready to tell.
A Few Words from the Director
“The City of Athens Festival, now in its fourth year, was created with a clear purpose: to introduce Athenians and international visitors to lesser-known sides of Athens through cultural events held in public spaces—parks, squares, pedestrian streets and more. Many of these spots are unfamiliar or rarely visited, and the public has embraced the initiative wholeheartedly. As a result, the festival has expanded to neighbourhoods across the city with remarkable success.”
“The events cater to all age groups, with many designed for families and children, including storytelling sessions, guided tours for locals and tourists, concerts, street fairs, film screenings, classical-music performances and, of course, the festival’s signature massive street parties.”
“A central aim of the festival is to spotlight Greek artists—especially from the younger generation—to highlight the talent and creativity of the local artistic scene. The festival has brought attention to places and events such as the Academy of Plato, the Varvakeios Central Market, the Kypseli Municipal Market, the parking lot of the Lycabettus Theater, the open-air sculpture garden at the First Cemetery of Athens, Omonia Square, Bei Park and many more.”
“Through the festival, Athens showcases its authenticity as a destination, something that resonates deeply with both Greeks and international visitors who take part in the events. After a decade marked by economic hardship, the city and its residents have emerged with a renewed vitality and openness that is both striking and compelling.”
“The festival reflects this transformation—not by glossing over the past, but by celebrating the fact that the city is alive and thriving, fuelled by incredible human potential and filled with overlooked or forgotten corners that deserve a fresh perspective, all under the singular light of the Attica sky.”
Our Best-of List of the Festival Events
(In no particular order)
01
Midnight Express: Star Trek
Date: May 15, 2025
Location: National Observatory of Athens
Experience the magic of midnight cinema under the stars with a special screening of the original Star Trek film. Set in the enchanting garden of the National Observatory, this event revives the nostalgic charm of Athens’ legendary late-night movie culture. Film critic Akis Kapranos brings this iconic sci-fi adventure back to the big screen, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to engage with visionary storytelling in a historic setting. Admission is free, but booking is required.
02
1st Athens International Youth Theatre Festival
Date: May 8, 2025
Location: Plato’s Academy Park
Celebrate the creativity of young performers at the inaugural Athens International Youth Theatre Festival. Held in the historic Plato’s Academy Park, this event showcases a diverse array of theatrical productions by youth groups from around the globe. Attendees can expect a vibrant mix of performances that reflect the perspectives and talents of the next generation of theater artists. This festival offers a unique opportunity to witness fresh narratives and innovative storytelling in a setting steeped in philosophical heritage.
03
Protogenous Spring City
Date: May 9, 2025
Location: Protogenous Street, Psyrri
Join the lively celebration of spring on Protogenous Street, where the heart of Psyrri comes alive with music, fashion, and culinary delights. This vibrant street party features DJ sets, live performances, pop-up markets, and street food, transforming the once-forgotten alley into a bustling hub of urban culture. Collaborations with local businesses and artists ensure a dynamic atmosphere that captures the essence of Athens’ creative spirit. The festivities kick off at 5:00 PM and continue into the night, offering a free and inclusive experience for all.
04
Queer Movie Nights
Date: May 9, 2025
Location: Trianon Cinema
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of LGBTQI+ cinema at Queer Movie Nights, a dedicated platform for queer storytelling through film. Since its inception in 2022, this event has become a cornerstone for showcasing short films, features, and documentaries that explore diverse queer experiences. Held at the historic Trianon Cinema, the evening offers a safe and expressive space for audiences to engage with powerful narratives that challenge and inspire. Tickets are priced at €5, with screenings running from 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM.
05
Street Outdoors Soundsystem
Date: May 10, 2025
Location: Eleftherias Park
Dance the evening away at Street Outdoors Soundsystem, where the renowned party collective brings their signature energy to Eleftherias Park. Known for hosting some of the city’s most electrifying street parties, Street Outdoors curates a lineup of cutting-edge dance music that resonates with Athens’ vibrant nightlife. From 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM, attendees can enjoy an open-air celebration that blends music, community, and the urban landscape. This free event invites everyone to experience the pulse of Athens’ contemporary music scene.
06
Apprenticeship Walk: 20+1 Stops
Date: May 12, 2025
Location: National Garden of Athens
Embark on a unique journey through Athens with the “Apprenticeship Walk: 20+1 Stops.” This guided tour offers participants an opportunity to explore various significant points within the National Garden, each representing a unique aspect of the city’s rich history and culture. While the specific details of each stop are provided in Greek, the overall experience promises an immersive exploration of Athens’ heritage in one of its most iconic green spaces.
07
A Tour of Rizokastro and the Anafiotika Area
Date: May 16, 2025
Location: Anafiotika, Athens
Join archaeologist Michalis Giohalas for a captivating walking tour through the historic Anafiotika neighborhood and the Rizokastro area. Discover the layered history of this picturesque part of Athens, nestled beneath the Acropolis, as you explore its unique architecture and cultural significance. This free event offers a rare opportunity to delve into the city’s past with expert guidance.
08
Lykeion ton Ellinidon
Date: May 17, 2025
Location: National Garden, Athens
Experience the rich tapestry of Greek folk traditions with a performance by the Lykeion ton Ellinidon Dance Group. Established in 1911, this esteemed organization showcases traditional dances from various regions of Greece, accompanied by live music and authentic costumes. Enjoy this vibrant cultural display in the serene setting of the National Garden.
09
Athens Disco
Date: May 17, 2025
Location: Dragatsaniou Arcade, Athens
Step back into the golden age of disco at the Athens Disco event. Dance the night away to rare vinyl sets from top Athenian DJs and collectors, celebrating the legendary sounds of the early ’70s. This free, open-air party transforms the heart of Athens into a vibrant dance floor under the mirrorball.
10
Open-Air Sculpture Gallery II
Date: May 18, 2025
Location: First Cemetery of Athens
Explore the artistic heritage of Athens with a guided tour of the First Cemetery, led by archaeologist Michalis Giohalas. Discover the cemetery’s remarkable sculptures and monuments, reflecting the city’s history and artistry. This free event offers a unique perspective on Athens’ cultural landscape.
11
Athens All Star Party
Date: May 18, 2025
Location: Lycabettus Hill Parking Lot, Athens
Join the ultimate open-air gathering at the Athens All Star Party, where dance crews, music collectives, locals, and visitors converge to party under the stars. With sweeping views of the city, this hilltop event transforms into Athens’ most electric dance floor for one night only. Admission is free.
12
Dobrawa Czocher
Date: May 20, 2025
Location: Roman Agora, Athens
Experience the Greek debut of internationally acclaimed cellist Dobrawa Czocher, presented by the Embassy of Poland in Athens and the Athens City Festival. Performing live with pianist and synth artist Natalia Czekała, Czocher blends classical and contemporary music, exploring new dimensions of the cello’s sound.
13
Moving Objects, Seeking Ideas
Date: May 21, 2025
Location: Elytis’ House – Museum, Athens
Join poet Ioulita Iliopoulou and ELIVIP President Nikios Bakounakis for a discussion on the creation of the Elytis House Museum. This free event offers insights into the life and work of Nobel laureate Odysseas Elytis, providing a deeper understanding of his literary legacy.
14
EMST Rooftop Party
Date: May 22, 2025
Location: National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), Athens
Celebrate the evening with a rooftop cocktail party at EMST, featuring panoramic 360° views of Athens and music by Italian electronic maestro Glass Coffee. This event offers a unique blend of art, music, and stunning cityscapes.
15
Parade with Agia Fanfara
Date: May 23, 2025
Location: From Attiki Square to Agios Panteleimonas Square, Athens
Join the lively street parade led by Agia Fanfara, a 25-piece brass, woodwind, and percussion band renowned for their energetic performances. The parade starts at Attiki Square and dances its way to Agios Panteleimonas Square, creating a full-blown Balkan street party.
16
Wellness Weekend with Eleni Petroulaki
Date: May 24–25, 2025
Location: National Garden, Athens
Rejuvenate your body and mind amidst the lush greenery of Athens’ National Garden during the Wellness Weekend led by fitness expert Niki Petroulaki. This holistic two-day event offers a rich program of Yoga, Pilates, Fitness, and Meditation sessions, complemented by soulful music experiences and insightful talks on self-awareness and wellbeing. Open to all and free of charge, it’s a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and yourself in the heart of the city.
17
A Cretan Fest with Psarogiorgis
Date: May 25, 2025
Location: Mayor Dimitris Beis Park, Athens
Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Crete at this grand feast featuring Psarogiorgis, a master of the Cretan lute (laouto). Hailing from a legendary musical family, Psarogiorgis brings the soul of Anogeia to Athens, spotlighting traditional Cretan music in a lively outdoor setting. Join the celebration of heritage and melody, free for all to enjoy.
18
Greek Cinema Nights
Date: May 26–29, 2025
Location: Eleftherias Park, Athens
Experience the magic of Greek cinema under the stars during four enchanting nights at Eleftherias Park. Gather with fellow film enthusiasts on the grass to watch a curated selection of contemporary Greek films, celebrating the country’s rich storytelling tradition. Admission is free, making it a perfect cultural outing for all.
19
The National School of Dance Steps Out
Date: May 28, 2025
Location: Omonia Square, Athens
Witness a captivating performance by students of the State School of Dance as they take to the streets of Athens. Under the artistic direction of Dafni Kokkinou, these talented dancers will transform Omonia Square into a dynamic stage, showcasing contemporary choreography in an open-air setting. This free event invites all to experience the vitality of modern dance.
20
Athens City Festival 2025 Closing Party
Date: June 1, 2025
Location: Athinas Street, Athens
Conclude the Athens City Festival with a spectacular street party on Athinas Street. Dance the night away to electrifying sets by renowned DJ Liva K, amidst a stunning light show and vibrant atmosphere. This grand finale transforms the heart of Athens into an open-air dance floor, celebrating the city’s dynamic spirit. Admission is free, welcoming all to join the celebration.
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