Summer in Thessaloniki also means... Festivals
Summers in Thessaloniki have a character of culture. And indeed, it is difficult to meet a resident of Thessaloniki who has not been to one of the city's festivals. Year after year, Thessaloniki's festivals are becoming establishments, some as old and traditional now and others as new ones that are slowly finding their own place on the city's cultural map.
It is a fortunate thing for a city to remain alive during the summer months through its activities and to keep its cultural identity unchanged but at the same time constantly renewed. Every year, residents and visitors of the city make their annual rendezvous with the summer festivals that host a multitude of artistic and cultural activities.
In Thessaloniki you will find many small and large events, festivals, festivals within festivals and performances, many of which take place in historic locations.
Moni Lazariston Festival
The Festival that every year increases its presence and brings for the audience a rich program of concerts and events including artists of the world music scene.
All kinds of group ages gather to enjoy their favourite musicians and the courtyard of the Lazariston Monastery is transformed into a lavish celebration that welcomes and celebrates summer in the city.
Artistic, classical and rock rhythms come alive until the end of September and invite everyone to enjoy themselves to their tunes. Once you've chosen the act you'd like to see, make sure you book your tickets early, as many concerts sell out in a flash.
Next event: 18/07 George Perris.
Learn more here
Eptapyrgion Festival
The culture of Thessaloniki at its best. Concerts, operas, performances, musical events in one of the most historic and emblematic locations of the city: within Eptapyrgion, one of the 15 UNESCO Cultural Heritage Sites in Thessaloniki.
As a relatively new addition to the list of the city's festivals, it proves every year its dynamics since 2019 and seeks to make Eptapyrgio a pole of attraction for visitors not only because of its historicity but also because of the cultural activities that take place there.
If you're thinking of attending the Eptapyrgion Festival, don't think about it for too long. Availability is limited and festival fans are showing their warm response early for the festival's activities.
Next event: 18/07 Federico García Lorca: Poetry Nights
Learn more here
Festival "Kalokairi sto Theatro Kipou"
And if you still don't consider Thessaloniki to be the city of summer festivals, then, Kalokairou at Theatro Kipou can tell you that you haven't seen it all yet.
The event organized by the Municipality of Thessaloniki promises a summer of culture and activities at the Theatro Kipou for young and old alike. Among a rich program you will find children's performances and of course concerts, music and theatrical events for adults.
The Festival will accompany residents and visitors until September and its proposals will fill our summer nights with song, dance and fun for all.
Next event: 22/7 8 Gynaikes (8 Women), theatre performance.
Learn more here
43rd Book Festival
The meeting point for book lovers. And it was only natural that such an initiative could not be missing from the city's summer festivals.
In front of the waterfront, at the White Tower Square, overlooking the Thermaikos Gulf, the festival welcomes its visitors with a number of books and publications that will be the best summer companion this year.
With a special tribute to Cypriot Letters and Cypriot poetry, the 43rd Book Festival writes its own history in the city as for over 40 years it has been highlighting the importance of continuous learning and access to knowledge.
At the White Tower Square until 21/07.
Learn more here
10th Forest Festival
Forest Festival celebrated its tenth birthday in the city this year with performances and concerts, most of which were sold out.
Especially if you are a fan of ancient theatre, then the festival is for you. Its activities will revive ancient comedies and tragedies in the venues of Theatro Dasous and Theatro Gis in lush green locations within the urban landscape. Among others, Forest Festival hosts concerts with the most famous and beloved names of the music scene.
Besides, there is no summer in Thessaloniki without a concert at Dasos Theatre or Gis Theatre and the locals already know that.
Next event: 19/07 Aeschylus' Oresteia, theatre performance.
Learn more here
