Farmers across Greece are adjusting their ongoing roadblock protests to accommodate holiday traffic, moving tractors to the roadside to allow vehicles to pass during the Christmas period. The demonstrations, which address economic and agricultural concerns, have caused significant disruptions on both national and regional roads.
According to the organizers, starting Tuesday—when schools close for the holidays—tractors will be moved aside to permit smoother vehicle passage. Full reopening of the roads will be reconsidered for New Year’s, though some lanes will remain closed in heavily concentrated areas such as Nikaia and parts of Karditsa.
For Friday, symbolic blockages are planned on secondary roads, with each protest site determining its own measures based on local capacity. Nationwide peak demonstrations are set to begin at 2 p.m., including closures of both main highways and detours, while morning traffic toward Larissa remains open for court attendees related to the Tempi trial.
At major blockades like Malgara, farmers have indicated partial openings for holiday traffic, whereas some routes toward Thessaloniki remain closed. In other locations, including Oraiokastro, toll gates will be temporarily lifted to allow vehicles through.
Authorities have responded to claims that police are obstructing traffic at blockades. Police spokesperson Konstantia Dimoglou clarified that diversions are sometimes necessary for safety reasons, especially where farmers or pedestrians are present, and coordination with protest organizers is ongoing.
Border crossings continue to experience lengthy closures. Farmers and livestock breeders have blocked customs points at Promachonas and Exochi on the Bulgarian border, as well as Evzoni and Niki on the North Macedonia border. Truck traffic is especially affected, with timed restrictions enforced throughout the day. Temporary openings may occur if long lines develop.
In Western Macedonia, farmers and livestock breeders have implemented short-term closures at the Bara Siatista junction on the Egnatia Odos, directing vehicle traffic along detours. Demonstrators also distribute agricultural products to passing drivers, maintaining strong community support.
The ongoing nationwide protest movement involves farmers, livestock breeders, and beekeepers from multiple regional unions, including the Eastern Eordaia and South Vegoritis basin, as well as the Amynteo municipality. Drivers are advised to expect delays and plan accordingly, as holiday traffic combined with blockades will extend travel times across affected routes.
