- The Christmas program continues along the Venetian Walls of Heraklion
- Events run from December 21 to December 28, 2025
- Includes sports, concerts, educational programs, theatre, and a drone show
- The Ministry of Culture funds actions through the Cultural Development Agreement
The Christmas program “Christmas in the City 2025” continues today, December 21, with a series of cultural, athletic, and educational activities taking place along the Venetian Walls of Heraklion.
The events are supported by €150,000 in funding from the Ministry of Culture, allocated to the Municipality of Heraklion under the Cultural Development Program Agreement (PSPA) for the Venetian fortifications.
The program aims to integrate the Venetian Walls into everyday urban life during the winter period, offering structured public access to a protected historical monument.
Sports and Public Activities from December 21
Sunday, December 21 | 09:00
Jesus Bastion
- First Parkrun Heraklion
- 5 km road run with free participation
- Open to all fitness levels
- Official timing provided
Registrations are available through the Parkrun platform.
Concerts and Cultural Events
Monday, December 22 | 19:30
Jesus Gate
- Loopia Christmas Live Concert 2025 – The Brass Section Project
- Jazz, funk, pop, soul, and Christmas arrangements
- Live looping and brass instrumentation
Wednesday, December 24 | 11:00
Jesus Gate
- Educational Christmas program by the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum
- For children aged 10–15
- Focus on the author’s correspondence and Christmas postcards
- Free participation with reservation
Thursday, December 25 | 19:30
Jesus Gate
- Concert by Manos Papadakis
- Program titled “Ta Aparaitita.”
- Includes new material scheduled for release in 2026
Drone Show and Large-scale Performances
Friday, December 26 | 18:30
Venetian Walls of Heraklion
- First drone show in the city’s history
- Hundreds of synchronized drones
- Visual tribute to the city’s history and fortifications
Friday, December 26 | 19:00
Mikis Theodorakis Open Theatre – Bethlehem Gate
(Weather alternative: Jesus Gate)
- Concert by Thodoris Voutsikakis
- Artistic direction: Lina Nikolakopoulou
- Repertoire includes international and Greek composers
Children’s Events and Family Programming
Saturday, December 27 | 11:30
Entrance of Nikos Kazantzakis Garden Theatre
- Disney character meet-and-greet for children
Saturday, December 27 | 18:00
Jesus Gate
- Children’s theatre performance
- “10 Stories About Kallikantzaroi” by Cretan Winds
- Storytelling with live traditional music
Sunday, December 28 | 12:00
Jesus Bastion Square
- Stilt-walker show by OMMA Studio
Visual Art Along the Venetian Walls
Throughout the year, the Heraklion Municipal Gallery continues to install high-resolution reproductions of artworks from its collection along walking routes and at gate areas of the Venetian Walls.
The initiative aims to:
- Create an open-air gallery accessible to residents and visitors
- Combine walking routes with art and historical interpretation
- Use QR codes and thematic signage to enhance visitor experience
Visitor Note
All events take place in and around a protected historic monument. Visitors are asked to follow on-site instructions, respect restricted areas, and move carefully along stone paths, especially in the evening hours.
Weather conditions in December can change quickly. Warm clothing and appropriate footwear are recommended. Accessibility may vary by location, particularly at bastions and gates.
Public transport and parking availability may be limited during significant events. Visitors are encouraged to plan their arrival.
