- Runs from February 15 to March 3, 2025
- 17 days packed with 72 events at 50 locations
- Highlights include Tsiknopempti celebrations downtown, cultural traditions in local neighborhoods, and Clean Monday festivities at Filopappou Hill
- A mix of music, dancing, food, and tradition, all with free entry
Tsiknopempti: Where Culture Meets Grilled Meat – Literally
The Athens Carnival doesn’t ease you into anything—no, it dives straight into Tsiknopempti (Smoky Thursday). Picture this: the seductive scent of grilled meat wafts through Syntagma Square, Monastiraki, and Varvakeios Market as locals indulge in the city’s tastiest tradition. Morning festivities feature a perplexing mix of a brass band and people grilling everything short of their hats, while the evening shifts to Kotzia Square with live music by KωΓιαMan and Gidiki. Tradition even gets a turn in the spotlight thanks to troupes reviving ancient customs, like Naxos’ Kordelatoi. And for the kids asking, no, you can’t drink ouzo for breakfast here—but there are fun family-friendly events galore.
If meat fumes aren’t your thing, the Philharmonic Orchestra has your back with live music alongside folklore troupes prancing through the streets. But fair warning: whether diagnosed or self-prescribed, you will develop an insatiable appetite for smoky grilled souvlaki and some good ol’ Greek wine by the end of the day.
Carnival Chaos for All Ages
Still got energy after Tsiknopempti? Good, because the party doesn’t stop. The city’s packed 17 days full of whacky, playful, and, let’s be honest, occasionally chaotic events. Tiny masked revelers roam the streets with their parents, exploring museums and art venues. The Athens Municipal Gallery, the Museum of Popular Tradition “Aggeliki Chatzi-Michali,” and even the Digital Museum are hosting workshops where kids glue feathers onto everything that moves—classic carnival activities.
Meanwhile, grown-ups can live their best (questionable) fashion week dream by participating in parades across neighborhoods like Kypseli, Plaka, and Pangrati. But if public displays of costume commitment aren’t your speed, sanitized indoor events are aplenty.
Looking for a finale? The grand procession, of course. On the last Sunday of the Carnival (March 2), the city organizes a biblically loud parade downtown, partnered with the Athens Chamber of Commerce. It’s half festive fun and half who-can-overpower-the-other competition between marching bands.
Key Highlights You Can’t Miss
Sure, there’s an overwhelming amount on the schedule—but let’s narrow it down.
- Tradition Meets Party: Entire neighborhoods collaborate with the City of Athens to revive cultural gems like the Lesvos Patinada custom and Thrace’s “Kiopék-Bey” game.
- Kid-Friendly Shenanigans: From bubble shows to circus artists and balloon animals, the Zappeion hosts THE must-attend children’s bash (February 23).
- Peak Confetti Usage: Creative hubs blast carnival confetti at will for children-only events—but don’t be shocked if it lingers down your shoes until summer.
- Clean Monday Relapse: While technically the “end,” Clean Monday festivities atop Filopappou Hill ensure the city can’t let go of its Carnival chaos. Cue live music, folk dances, traditional dishes, and (of course) kite flying.
Make sure to charge your phone (for photos, duh!) and check out the full program here. Pro tip? Avoid heavy heels unless you plan to sink into the confetti-draped streets!
