With a history that spans more than sixty years, the Athens & Epidaurus Festival combines an impressive line-up of music, theatre, and dance performances. This summer, the Athens & Epidaurus Festival will be hosting a wide array of renowned Greek and international performers.

Among the headline acts are Chinese pianist, Yuja Wang, the British rock band Jethro Tull, and Yo-Yo Ma the greatest solo cellist in the world. A production of Oedipus based on Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, by acclaimed American theater director Robert Wilson, will be held at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus on 21 & 22 June. The Greek National Opera will present Vincenzo Bellini’s Norma in June and Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata in July.

 

 

The Athens & Epidaurus Festival is Greece’s leading cultural event and one of the oldest performing arts festivals in Europe (1955). Each year, the Athens & Epidaurus Festival presents performances from acclaimed artists in theatre, dance, and music and attracts large audiences from around the world.

 

The festival takes place annually in the months of June, July, and August. More specifically, the Athens Festival performances are held between June 1st and mid to late July while the Epidaurus performances are held every Friday and Saturday, from early July to mid-August.

 

In Athens the festival is held at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Peiraios 260, and Opening to the City. In Epidaurus it takes place at Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and the Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus. Site-specific performances are presented in various neighbourhoods of Athens and Piraeus, including outdoor spaces and archaeological sites, thus expanding the Festival’s scope and audience and encouraging spectators’ active engagement.

 

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XpatAthens is proud to be a Media Sponsor of the Athens Festival

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ReBrain Greece, a new pilot program for the repatriation of at least 500 Greek professionals with significant qualifications and expertise, was presented on Monday by Giannis Vroutsis, the Greek Minister of Labor, Social Insurance, and Social Solidarity.

The program aims to tackle the Greek brain drain issue by facilitating the gradual repatriation of highly-qualified Greek nationals who left Greece during the economic crisis in search of better-paying jobs.

The ReBrain Greece initiative guarantees the repatriated Greeks a minimum wage of €3,000 monthly month for at least two years. The program commits to paying €2,000 per month, while the employer companies will cover the remaining amount. At the end of the two years, the companies will continue to employ the professionals for at least one more year, continuing to pay a minimum monthly salary of €3,000.

 

Greeks aged between 28 and 40 with recognized international scientific and professional experience and post-grad academic credentials who are willing to the Greek labor market needs in new technologies will be able to register in the ReBrain Greece platform.

Greece has already begun loosening its strict lockdown measures, and as of Friday May 14, 2021, the entire country will begin to move more freely!

This means that the SMS system for leaving home will end, night curfew will begin at 12.30 am (instead of 11 pm), while domestic travel restrictions will be lifted as part of Greece’s phased returned to normality after months of strict lockdown measures. 

Also, the click-and-collect and click-in-shop systems will cease as retail trade gets closer to normal with health protocols in place stipulating one customer per 25 square meters.

What’s more, as of Friday, May 14th, the Greek version of the “green certificate” regarding travel to the islands (with the exception of Lefkada and Evia) comes into force, either by boat or by air. 

Read all about a very special summer celebration that takes place in Greece, why it's important and how its celebrated by Greeks!

Remember to stay connected with us through our weekly newsletter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Santorini’s tourism will boost again with Santorini Experience 2022, as amateur and professional swimmers and runners, are expected to visit once again one of the world’s top tourist destinations through sports tourism. Santorini Experience will be held on September 23-25 ​​for its 6th year and will include unique running and swimming routes with a backdrop of Santorini’s enchanting landscape. 

 

On Wednesday, July 27, this year’s event official presentation took place in the Acropolis Museum, in the presence of the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Sofia Zacharaki, the President of the Greek National Tourism Organization, Ms. Angela Gerekou, the Mayor of Thira, Mr. Antonis Sigalas, the Deputy Mayor of Thira and Head of Culture Ms. Sofia Kitsou and the Chief Executive Officer of ActiveMedia Group, Mr. Akis Tsolis, while the Deputy Minister of Culture & Sports, Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis sent his greeting through a video message. The press conference was held in the presence of the Technical Director of the event’s swimming race, Nikos Gemelos, the World Open Water Swimming Champion, Representative of the athletes of the Hellenic Swimming Federation and member of its Board of Directors, Kelly Araouzou, the President of the Hellenic Association of Sports Press, Mr. Yannis Theodorakopoulos as well as many journalists.

 

Thira Municipality is not limited to simply hosting a major tourism event on the island of Santorini, as it intends to also highlight the cultural wealth of a globally leading tourism destination, organizing Santorini Experience, after two years of pandemic.

In the context of the press conference, the Mayor of Thira, Mr. Antonis Sigalas, stated among other things: “Santorini holds an enviable position on the world stage, and is one of the leading and most popular holiday destinations. Our goal is to further upgrade our tourist product and enrich it with new alternative forms of tourism that offer unprecedented experiences. The symbolisms of the names of the two sports activities that we have announced for Santorini Experience is obvious. We want to connect the authentic experience with the history and the elements of our cultural reserve as well as to honor the founders of the “Loula & Evangelos Nomikos” Foundation.

Accordingly, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Sofia Zacharaki, said: “The sporting event of Santorini Experience, on the one hand, enriches the tourism product beyond the two elements of sun and sea, while it has all the elements that will make this experience special so that the visitor will return to this wonderful island and our country. At the same time, it has the details of the repetition of the visit for anyone who participates in this event. In Santorini, you have no shortage of reasons to return to the island, but you have many reasons to visit for the first time. We will be there both with the auspices and with the physical presence, but mainly with the message that we will convey to the whole world, that this event is happening in Greece, adding to our overall effort, for quality, sustainability, balance”.

The Deputy Minister of Culture & Sports, Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis, addressed his greeting with a video saying, among other things: “Warm congratulations are deserved to the Municipality of Thira, to ActiveMedia Group as well as to all those who have worked for the implementation of this year’s event. What makes this event special is the perfect combination of culture, history, and the natural wealth of Santorini, with the sports tourism of the region as the main driving force”. 

The President of the Greek National Tourism Organization, Ms. Angela Gerekou highlighted among other things: “In recent years, Santorini has proven that it can combine the entire kaleidoscope of tourism that we work on and promote for our country. The exceptional event, Santorini Experience, that combines sports, tourism, culture will be able to give a very dynamic boost to the tourism of Santorini”.

In addition, the Deputy Mayor of Thira and Head of Culture, Ms. Sofia Kitsou stated in the context of the Press Conference: “The Daedalic Kore of Thira, is a unique archaeological finding of supernatural size made of marble, dating back to 640 BC, which was found preserved in excellent condition at the site of Sellada in Ancient Thira. This finding of 2.30 meters height and about 750 kilograms weight, is going to be exhibited to the world for the first time, in the outdoor area of ​​the Archaeological Museum of Thira. I am especially glad that ActiveMedia Group shared this vision with us, as we jointly decided to give the name of the Daedalic Kore to the Half Marathon. This year you will have one more reason to participate in Santorini Experience to see the Daedalic Kore up close”.  

Finally, the Chief Executive Officer of ActiveMedia Group, Mr. Akis Tsolis said, among other things: “In combination with all the new trends in tourism, the tourism plan based on the destinations together with the institutional framework formed by the Ministry of Tourism, aims at creating Greek branded tourist products in the field of sports tourism. The high-quality and diversified events that are created are sporting events with a unique Greek identity, are a national treasure on which our national income directly depends and overall, contribute to the well-being of our country. Moreover, we should keep in mind that we don't create our brand, but the audience that participates. We do not have a say οn this, but our participants are the only ones who do, because it concerns them. For this reason, we are optimistic about our new venture”.

“Travel” through the magnificent images of Santorini’s landscape and the tune composed by the renowned Greek artist Kid Moxie following an international career in Los Angeles, USA. The music was inspired by the santouri. An ancient musical instrument, which is an integral part of the Greek tradition and is widespread all over the world both to India, China and to the west, in the Middle East, the Balkans, etc.

Watch the teaser video here: https://youtu.be/NUaOiwE548E

Register now – Free registration for Thira Municipality Citizens

Participants can register and take part in the impressive “Daedalic Kore of Thira” Half Marathon and the 1.5 miles “L & E Nomikos” Open Water Swimming. The citizens of Thira Municipality can participate for free.

Register here: https://bit.ly/3oyKX27 

Run in the “Daedalic Kore of Thira” Half Marathon 

The “Daedalic Kore of Thira” Half Marathon will take place on Saturday, September 24, 2022, running across the enchanting areas of Oia, Imerovigli and Fira. More routes and surprises will be announced.

Take part in the 1.5 miles “L & E Nomikos” Open Water Swimming route from the Volcano to Fira 

Participating athletes will have the opportunity to swim in the unique 1.5 miles (2.4 km) “L & E Nomikos” open water swimming route, of Santorini Experience. The swimming event is going to be held on Sunday September 25, 2022, starting from the volcano with its finish line at the old port of Fira, under the imposing view of the island.

Vikos Natural Mineral Water is the event’s Official Water.

Englobia and Esperisma bar restaurant are Official Supporters.

 

Up to this point, this year’s event is enormously supported by the following hospitality sponsors / hotels: Kivotos Santorini, The Tsitouras Collection, Vedema, A Luxury Collection Restort Santorini, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Colombo's Beachfront Hotel, Sienna Eco Resort, 270 Oia's View – Lydia's House, West East Suites, Marvarit Suites, Loizos Stylish Residences, Athina Luxury Suites.

Santorini Experience takes place this year for the 6th year and is organized by the Municipality of Thira and the Sports Tourism department of ActiveMedia Group.

 

The event will be held under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism and the Greek National Tourism Organization.

 

More information on new surprises of this year's event and special offers for access to Santorini, will be announced in the coming weeks at: www.santorini-experience.com 

Sports Production: ActiveMedia Group

#SantoriniExperience

Photo by Babis Giritziotis 

Iconic Hotels Grande Bretagne and King George, heightening their standards in gastronomy, proudly present the new seasonal menus of GB Roof Garden and Tudor Hall Restaurants for this winter. 

Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis with his experienced team of Chefs and with absolute loyalty in their sustainability vision, choose the best local ingredients, put their expert culinary skills at the forefront and captivate their guests with imaginative dishes, divine flavors, images and aromas,

At the all-time favourite Athenian spot, the GB Roof Garden Restaurant, talented Chef de Cuisine Nikos Liokas with significant experience in renowned London restaurants, has designed with great expertise an exciting “fine comfort” menu with Mediterranean influences and genuine nostalgic flavours. Dishes are being created utilizing fresh seasonal and high quality ingredients with emphasis on organic locally sourced products of small producers and food provenance is specially denoted on the menu card. Discover sophisticated dishes with intense wide-ranging flavors; starring the grilled calamari with smoked fish roe sauce, the pumpkin risotto with ‘ladotyri’ cheese from Zakynthos island, the chargrilled potato from Naxos with ‘beurre noisette', cauliflower purée, fermented leek and Naxian graviera sauce as well as the delicious grilled lamb - shoulder, chop and carré - served with roasted potato, black garlic mayonnaise and yoghurt sauce.  The beetroot salad with goat cheese, cumin, falafel and crunchy quinoa and the linguini with ’nduja’, garum sauce, botargo and lime infuse an international flair to the menu. Various types of fresh sourdough bread are served straight from the oven of the historic hotel's new bakery. 

At the revamped and opulent Tudor Hall Restaurant, distinguished Chef de Cuisine Nikos Leivadias, carrying a long and successful work experience in modern fine dining, unfolds his imagination and adds a new dimension to the Greek cuisine. The refined dishes of the menu feature high aesthetics and unrivalled taste spotlighting a contemporary version of traditional Greek ingredients. The welcome canapés are nothing less than small mouth-watering masterpieces that set the scene for the dining experience that follows. To mention just a few, there is smoked eel with pickled cucumber and caviar, beef tartare with cream cheese and truffle, handmade organic tomato paste with breadsticks and five different types of bread from the in-house bakery. The outstanding starters of the menu include the white asparagus risotto with a confit egg yolk, Naxos graviera, leeks and capers as well as the langoustine duet –grilled and tartare- with coriander, lime and roasted pistachio. Among the most delectable and sophisticated main courses on the menu are the cod with lobster and carrot, the free-range chicken breast with mushroom puree, truffle and ravioli filled with chicken leg as well as the beef brisket with potato and wine-berry sauce.

For the wine connoisseurs, Head Sommelier Evangelos Psofidis proposes exquisite wine pairings that will enhance your culinary experience and curates the restaurants’ awarded wine list.  

Founded by Steph Kontomichalou, Nefeli Nine is a distinctive healthy lifestyle retreat blending yoga, hiking, and nourishing homemade food. Located in some of Greece’s most stunning yet lesser-known regions—Dikastika, Pelion, Agrafa and Zagorochoria—this retreat offers a week of rejuvenation, cultural exploration, and adventure. The 2025 schedule runs from April through November, with full details available at www.nefelinine.com.

Nefeli Nine revolves around three core elements that create a holistic and transformative experience: movement, food, and the beauty of Greece.

Meals at Nefeli Nine are lovingly prepared by Steph, drawing inspiration from her Mediterranean roots. Using fresh, locally sourced, and seasonal ingredients, she crafts a varied and nourishing menu. Guests also dine at traditional Greek tavernas, experiencing authentic hospitality and hidden culinary gems frequented by locals. This balance of home-cooked meals and traditional restaurants ensures a rich and satisfying gastronomic journey.

Nefeli Nine offers activities suitable for all fitness levels. Hiking excursions explore Greece’s spectacular yet often overlooked mainland, covering scenic trails in the mountains or along tranquil beaches. These hikes challenge and inspire, offering breathtaking views and a deeper connection to nature.

Yoga sessions combine Vinyasa and restorative styles, tailored to both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Classes are designed to energize, relax, and release stress, making the retreat both restorative and invigorating. Guests are encouraged to fully engage with the experience or unwind at their own pace with a book or a peaceful moment.

The retreat’s mission is to showcase Greece's authentic beauty, away from tourist crowds. Guests explore a side of the mainland often overshadowed by the islands, discovering historical landmarks, idyllic villages, and pristine landscapes. With expert guidance and warm hospitality, every retreat fosters a profound appreciation for Greece’s culture, history, and natural splendor.

Each of the Nefeli Nine team is selected because they offer something different and interesting for the guests. The yoga instructors draw on their varied backgrounds to design well-constructed classes that not only suit the group but reflect the needs of the day. The hiking guides are true nature lovers with an amazing wealth of knowledge of local flora, fauna and history. Guests are treated to the stories of the trails and the history of the area but also learn about the local plants and flowers. Depending on the season they can also pick wild asparagus, mushrooms, fresh thyme and oregano. 

Join Nefeli Nine for a week of wellness, culture, and nature, and uncover the true essence of Greece.

About FoC

Friends of Canada is an informal network beginning in 2001 when the Canadian embassy suggested alumni from Canadian universities band together in Thessaloniki, Greece. We later embraced a more open-door policy and, in close collaboration with the Canadian Consulate of Thessaloniki, welcomed all friends of Canada into our Northern Greece group.

In late 2011, incoming Canadian Ambassador to Greece, Robert Peck, and Maria Pantazi-Peck suggested we start an informal sister FoC network in Athens, and they hosted an opening Christmas event at their official Canadian residence. Since then, FoC has strived to serve as a link between the local community and the embassy/consulate. 

FoC’s main purpose is to facilitate the exchange of Canadian-related information, as well as to encourage old-fashioned camaraderie. Membership is free and all nationalities are welcome to join. 

Newsletter

This is the backbone of FoC. We send out our free newsletters whenever we have Canadian-related news that is of particular interest to the local community. We email notices about our own FoC events, as well as pertinent notices from our embassy-related affiliates: the Canadian Embassy in Greece, the Canadian Institute in Greece (CIG), the Hellenic Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Vorres Museum (‘Canada House’) and the Canadian University Graduates in Greece group. 

Events

We collect no monies, so there is a ‘pay as you go’ philosophy at FoC happenings in both Athens and Thessaloniki. To facilitate participation by all, special care has always been taken to keep participation costs to a minimum, and to use venues with easy public transport access. Over the years, FoC has hosted numerous events and activities, however COVID has brought downsizing. Our affiliates also host several open-to-the-public events, so our FoC newsletter acts as a link to inform the local community about such occasions.

Membership

There is no membership fee. To join up and receive our free electronic newsletter, simply send all of the following information to friendsofcanada.greece@gmail.com (your confidentiality will be respected):

• Full Name
• Nationality
• Email address
• Mobile phone number
• Landline phone number (home or office)
• Present city/town
  Preferred newsletter, Athens or Thessaloniki
• Facebook name (if you are on Facebook)

Please also copy and send the following statement: *'Friends of Canada has my consent to process my data.'

* This is simply a legal formality, to comply with the EU General Data Protection Regulation. It means you are consenting to FoC processing your data for the sole purpose of FoC communications. You may withdraw this consent at any time by emailing FoC with a request to 'unsubscribe' - your contact information will then be deleted from our database.

Facebook

Besides registering, do also ‘like’ us at https://www.facebook.com/athens.thessaloniki. Our FoC Facebook page, with thousands of global (including local) followers, gives FoC a forum in which to make announcements about the great personal projects of FoC members. If we are emailed a concise notice (and/or a visual in .jpg format), we can then copy/paste and post this announcement on our facebook page.

Founding & Current Coordinator

Kathryn Lukey-Coutsocostas

CONTACT INFO

Email: friendsofcanada.greece@gmail.com
Website: https://friendsofcanada.gr/