At a glance
May
The whole month. In 2024 it lasted until 2 June.
300+
Events in 2026, in neighbourhoods all over the city.
Free
Most events, no ticket needed.
Since 2022
Every year, from the City of Athens.
What happens
The programme changes every year, but the idea stays the same: every day in May something happens somewhere in the city, from the centre to the neighbourhoods. In 2026 the festival opened on May Day with a picnic at Plato’s Academy. It had jazz in the National Garden, live music at the National Archaeological Museum, parties on Lycabettus, at the Zappeion and in Kerameikos, DJ LTJ Bukem, an Athens Pride party, photo exhibitions and free fitness sessions in parks. Guided tours and walks are usually in Greek, but concerts and parties don’t need a language.
In 2023 the Cinematic Orchestra concert in Kotzia Square drew more than 6,000 people. Some events have limited places and may need booking in advance.
The festival opened here in 2026, with a picnic on May Day.
In 2026 it had jazz among the trees.
One of the venues for the festival’s parties.
Evenings with music in the city centre.
Photos: dronepicr (CC BY 2.0), George E. Koronaios (CC0, CC BY-SA 4.0), Jakub Hałun (CC BY 4.0), Erik Drost (CC BY 2.0), Wikimedia Commons.
Where to find the programme
The programme is announced shortly before the festival starts on cityfestival.thisisathens.org, with a search by day, neighbourhood and type of event. The site is also in English. Many events are in the centre, within walking distance or one or two metro stops from Ioulianou 50: Kotzia Square, the National Garden, the Zappeion and the National Archaeological Museum, which is a five-minute walk away.
Kathy’s tip: if you’re coming to Athens in May, open the programme on day one and note two or three things near where you’re staying. For anything that needs booking, book early.
Frequently asked questions
When is the City Festival in 2027?
It takes place every May. The 2027 dates have not been announced; we expect it roughly from 1 May to 31 May (estimate).
Is it free?
Most events, yes. Some may need booking, because places are limited.
Is it for tourists?
Yes. Concerts, parties and exhibitions don’t need Greek. Guided tours are usually in Greek.
Where do the events take place?
In squares, parks, museums and theatres all over Athens, many in the centre.
— Kathy
