Cultural Extravaganza: Events in Athens You Can’t Miss
Athens is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage expressed through an array of events throughout the year. So, if you want to enjoy your time in the city to the fullest, there are some must-attend events in Athens -from cultural events, music festivals, and high-tech science experiences to marathons- that you can’t miss. After all, you can’t truly experience a new place if you don’t participate in the local culture!
In this article, we will introduce you to the city’s cultural scene and share the top events in Athens. Let’s dive in!
- Athens/Epidaurus Festival
- The Authentic Athens Marathon
- Athens Street Food Festival
- Athens Science Festival
- Rockwave Festival
- Athens International Film Festival
- Athens Music Week
- International Museum Day
1. Athens/Epidaurus Festival
The Athens/Epidaurus Festival is arguably one of the most renowned cultural events in Athens! Founded in 1955, it is also one of the oldest, boasting decades of contribution to the Greek cultural scene. Throughout the years, the Athens/Epidaurus Festival has included some of the most prominent Greek directors and actors and hosted many groundbreaking performances that have left their mark on the modern cultural scene!
This music and theater festival takes place in Athens and Epidaurus every summer, featuring numerous performances by both local and international artists and troupes. The extensive festival agenda includes contemporary theater, dance, and music performances usually held in the ancient theaters of Herod Atticus in Athens and Epidaurus in Epidaurus, attracting a large audience. If attending an event at the Herodion Theater in Athens is on your bucket list, this is your chance to cross it off!
2. The Authentic Athens Marathon
One of Athens’ most popular annual sports events, the Authentic Marathon takes place every second Sunday of November. This legendary marathon starts in Marathon, a city near Athens, and finishes at the Panathenaic stadium, where the Olympic Games were born. This route is not random -it pays tribute to an ancient Greek messenger who ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens in 490 B.C. to announce that the Greeks had won the battle against the Persians.
Today, this historical route has become the ultimate challenge for thousands of runners who complete it every year. Combining history with athletic excellence, the Authentic Marathon is a top sports event in Athens for those who love challenges!
3. Athens Street Food Festival
If you are a foodie, you shouldn’t miss this delicious festival! One of the biggest food festivals in Greece, the Athens Street Food Festival is a gastronomic heaven for street food lovers and those who want to explore delicacies from all over the world. From burgers, hot dogs, and crepes to ice cream and everything in between, this festival features the most delicious street food, cooked by talented chefs.
The Athens Street Food Festival takes place every May in the Old Depot, near the city center, so if you are staying in a hotel in Athens city center make sure to attend it. And don’t forget to go there on an empty stomach!
4. Athens Science Festival
If you are a science lover the Athens Science Festival shouldn’t be missing from your list! Since 2014, when it was first held, this festival has been attracting thousands of researchers, innovators, and science enthusiasts who want to learn about science and the latest technological advancements. With the contribution of more than 6,000 scientific associates, 850 speakers, and 350 artists, the Athens Science Festival continues to exceed expectations every year!
It takes place every spring for a week, so if you plan to visit Athens in spring, you shouldn’t miss it!
5. Rockwave Festival
Rockwave Festival is an annual music event in Athens, held yearly in Malakasa. With a history spanning several decades, this legendary festival attracts local and international music lovers who want to enjoy their favorite artists, see emerging bands on stage, and connect with like-minded individuals.
Focusing on rock and metal music, Rockwave Festival has hosted some of the most renowned international singers and groups, including Robbie Williams, Deep Purple, Lana del Ray, Arctic Monkeys, and Iron Maiden. However, each year the festival never ceases to amaze audiences with surprises, remaining relevant and adapting to the ever-changing international music landscape!
6. Athens International Film Festival
Are you a film enthusiast? Then the International Film Festival is a cultural event in Athens you should attend! Attracting thousands of local and international cinema lovers, this festival has become one of Greece’s most prominent film festivals. For about 10 days every September and October, the capital turns into a cultural paradise, with many cinemas around the city hosting screenings of independent films, popular films, and beloved classics.
This cultural celebration provides a platform for emerging filmmakers and an opportunity to highlight lesser-known genres of independent cinema while introducing the audience to some of the best international productions. So, if you want to embark on a fascinating cultural trip and learn about the latest movie trends, the Athens International Film Festival is a must-attend event.
7. Athens Music Week
Athens Music Week is a boutique conference and showcase music festival, which takes place every June in Athens. Since 2018, its first year, Athens Music Week, one of the best music events in Athens, has stayed true to its vision of offering one-of-a-kind musical and cultural experiences to music lovers! From music concerts to talks, workshops, interviews, and seminars by music experts, this festival features a wide range of events that attract both professionals and novice musicians.
It offers musicians from all over the world, music fans, and industry experts the opportunity to come together and interact, sharing their music experiences and exchanging knowledge!
8. International Museum Day
If you’re searching for free events in Athens, consider International Museum Day! Founded in 1977 by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), International Museum Day aims to promote peace and collaboration between nations through art and culture.
Each May, admission to the city’s museums is free for one day, allowing locals and tourists to visit the most popular archaeological and art museums in Athens and enjoy several cultural events. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local history and culture!
There’s no denying that the Greek capital has a vibrant cultural scene! By attending the best events in Athens, including the ones we shared with you, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in its culture and discover all those cultural aspects that make this city unique!
