Newsletter February 2025

Goodbye, sluggish January. February arrives with a sense of momentum, building toward a late-month crescendo. As Athens shakes off its winter lull, the city slips into a celebratory mood, with the spirit of Apokries (Greek Carnival) in the air. Expect flamboyant costumes, showers of confetti, and bars pulsing with themed parties all across the city. The scent of sizzling meat drifts through the streets on Tsiknopempti (Smoky Thursday), as friends and families gather to indulge. Meanwhile, Valentine’s Day sets the stage for romance, with candlelit dinners on Athenian rooftops and seaside sunsets painting the perfect backdrop.

And just when you think the celebrations have peaked, Athens keeps the good times rolling.

Costumes, parades, and non-stop revelry—Athens goes all out for Apokries. From street parties to age-old traditions, here’s how to join the city’s most colourful celebration.
Let the good times roll

Smoky, succulent, and straight off the coals—Athens’ grill houses serve up some of the best meats in town. Whether for Tsiknopempti or any day of the week, here’s where to go.
Dig in

Planning the perfect Valentine’s date? From sultry speakeasies to scenic rooftop views, Athens sets the mood for any romantic occasion. Discover the city’s most enchanting spots for a night to remember.
Set the mood

• With Dry January behind you, warm up with some bracing reds at an Athenian wine bar;
• While away a wintery evening at an authentic rebetiko taverna where musicians play nostalgic Greek blues music;
• Discover Athens’ edgier art scene at an alternative gallery, where boundary-pushing exhibitions breathe new life into unexpected spaces.

Murcof and Jan Jelinek Live at St. Paul's Sessions 7 | February 15
Electronic pioneers Murcof and Jan Jelinek transform the Athens Conservatory with hypnotic soundscapes in one of the season’s most thrilling double bills.
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Tchaikovsky | February 14-23
Discover the great composer's story beyond his music as the Greek National Opera Ballet brings his personal struggles, fears, and passions to life through dance.
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Mami | Until March 22
See theatre wunderkind Mario Banushi’s hauntingly poetic take on motherhood as he weaves memory, myth, and emotion into a powerful performance. At Onassis Stegi.
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Kykladitisses: Untold Stories of Women in the Cyclades | Until May 4
Discover centuries of girl power at the Goulandris Museum, where rare artifacts—many on display for the first time—shed light on the lives of Cycladic women.
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Goya’s Los Caprichos: A Rare Masterpiece in Athens | Until September 30
For the first time in Greece, Goya’s Los Caprichos—one of the most radical and haunting works in art history—takes centre stage at the National Gallery. A scathing satire of power and superstition, these 80 etchings pushed the limits of artistic rebellion. Experience the full series alongside Goya’s rare preparatory sketches in this must-see exhibition.
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Discover all events here

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