Athens kicked off the festive season yesterday, Thursday 27, of November, as the city center came alive for Christmas. Mayor Haris Doukas lit the 19-meter Christmas tree at Syntagma Square during a lively event featuring music, performances, and a festive atmosphere, despite light rain.
The tree, sourced from a farm in Chrysoivitsi, Arcadia, was transported with permission from the local forestry authority. Festivities began with a parade by the Athens Municipal Band, starting at Monastiraki, moving along Ermou Street, and ending at Syntagma Square. Crowds of all ages gathered early, enjoying holiday melodies from the city’s Big Band.
A parade by the Philharmonic Orchestra from the Ermou fountain to Syntagma Square invited attendees to join the music. Singer Panos Mouzourakis performed a special live holiday show, while presenters Krateros Katsoulis and Dora Makrygianni hosted the event. The Children’s Choir from Papagou Primary Schools also participated, with simultaneous interpretation in Greek Sign Language for accessibility.
At 19:30, the mayor officially illuminated the tree, revealing this year’s decorations: red and gold baubles, illuminated plexiglass ornaments, and 3,000 meters of sparkling lights. In total, Syntagma Square and the tree featured 21,000 meters of garlands and 168,000 lights. After the holidays, the tree will be donated to the Athens School of Fine Arts for student woodworking projects.
Decorations extended beyond Syntagma Square. Main streets including Panepistimiou, Stadiou, Ermou, and Vasilissis Sofias Avenue were adorned with LED lights, garlands, and Christmas trees. Interactive installations, such as a glowing Santa Claus and a Nutcracker gate, entertained visitors along Ermou Street, while Mitropoleos Square hosted a traditional nativity scene.
Athens’ Christmas celebrations also continue at Pedion tou Areos, where the regional Christmas Village opened yesterday and will run until January 7, 2026. Daily activities run from 16:30 to 22:00, with weekend hours from 10:00. The opening included the village tree lighting by Attica Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias, a light show, and performances by Thodoris Ferris and Onemanshow. Earlier, at 18:00, the street band “Molivenioi Stratiotes” entertained visitors with classic festive tunes.
Athens’ holiday program brings music, lights, and interactive experiences across the city, offering residents and visitors a festive welcome to the Christmas season.
