XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Thursday, 12 September 2024 13:54

September: Your Fresh Start to Achieve New Goals!

The arrival of September often feels like a second chance at a fresh start, much like the beginning of a new year. As the summer fades and routines resume, it's the perfect time to reflect on what we want to achieve, set new goals, and make promises to ourselves that this time, we’ll see them through. Even if our resolutions from January didn’t last past the first few weeks, September offers us an opportunity to recalibrate and refocus.

Goals give us direction and a sense of purpose. They’re like a compass guiding us through times when we might feel a bit lost or uncertain. When we have goals, the fear of not knowing what comes next is replaced by a sense of confidence and clarity. We know who we are, what we’re working toward, and where we’re going. Instead of wandering aimlessly, we walk with purpose. So, let’s explore why setting goals, especially now in September, can have a lasting impact.

September Goals Keep Us Motivated

One of the biggest challenges we face throughout the year is losing our momentum. How many times have we felt the urge to change something, but over time, our motivation faded, and we abandoned our plans? Often, it’s because we don’t have a strong enough reason driving us forward. September is a great moment to reignite that inner motivation. Setting fresh goals keeps our desired outcome in mind, reminding us why we’re working toward something and increasing our chances of success.

Goals Help Us Stay Focused Amid the Hustle of Fall

As we transition back to busier schedules in the fall—whether it’s work, school, or personal commitments—it's easy to get distracted or overwhelmed. But having a clear goal is like having a map that keeps us on track. Take finances, for example. We might plan to save more, but distractions in the form of tempting purchases can lead us astray. However, when there’s a clear purpose behind our savings, like planning a holiday trip or investing in something meaningful, it becomes easier to stay focused.

Goals Bring Stability as We Prepare for the End of the Year

As we head toward the final months of the year, the sense of uncertainty can grow. The end-of-year deadlines loom, and the unpredictable nature of life often makes it hard to plan too far ahead. That’s why setting goals in September can be so powerful. Even if the world around us feels chaotic, having clear goals helps us stay grounded and make decisions with purpose, bringing us much-needed stability.

Achieving Our September Goals Builds Confidence for the Future

There’s something incredibly satisfying about accomplishing what we set out to do, and that feeling becomes even more important as we near the end of the year. Achieving our September goals fills us with a renewed sense of hope and boosts our confidence. It reminds us that we’re capable of great things, and that once we tackle one goal, the rest don’t seem so impossible.

So, as we step into September, let's embrace this moment as a chance to reset and refocus. It’s not just about the destination—enjoy the journey that brings us closer to the life we want to create. Remember, the things we regret most are often the ones we never tried, the goals we abandoned when we thought we couldn’t make it. This September, let’s turn our dreams into reality instead of letting them fade away.
Premiere: Friday, September 20

(Special Offer: 20 tickets available for €5 at the box office. Arrive by 19:00)
 
"I don't love her. We're getting married in two months. That's how it is."

THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens' first English-language theatre, presents the dark comedy "Bachelors and Bachelorettes" by renowned playwright, director, and writer Hanoch Levin under the direction of Vassiliou Vassia. The show premieres on Friday, September 20, and will run until October 28.

This witty, dark, and delightfully twisted comedy boldly exposes the absurdity of human nature through our desperate need to avoid loneliness, posing essential and thought- provoking questions: Is companionship a real need or just a fear of being alone? Does love truly matter in a relationship? Is intimacy an inner necessity or merely a way to overcome insecurities?

Z is about to marry F, whom he firmly declares to the audience he does not love. F leaves Z and connects with X, who was involved with M, who is now with O. O knows about M’s past with X and later with Z, but insists on staying with her. Z leaves M and briefly returns to F, but F goes back to X, and Z returns to M, all while O remains present. And thus, the labyrinth of desires, fears, and insecurities never ends.

Director's Note

My introduction to Hanoch Levin’s work is relatively recent, yet it has been an eye-opening and promising experience. A brilliant writer doesn’t need to tackle something complex or grand to draw us into his world. Levin writes simply about loneliness. His characters are impulsive, insecure, and instinctive, surrendering unconditionally to their fleeting desires, which they label as love. In truth, the concepts of love, connection, intimacy, and communication are absent from the play. Bold physical unions are followed by utter boredom and disappointment, and this cycle seems to have no end.

The play underscores the ridiculousness of human nature’s attempts to obtain what it believes is essential. This ignorance of our absurdity proves that the world is inhabited by children trapped in adult bodies. We are creatures of habit, desire, passion, need, fear, and insecurity. The continuous external and internal conflicts caused by daily experiences constantly bring to the forefront the complexity of human beings who struggle to fit within the narrow social boundaries and the intricate rules of their time.

What do Z, F, X, M, and O really want? To be happy. In short, the most difficult thing. Does happiness simply depend on our choices? Perhaps the broader concept of happiness doesn't meet the conditions of our personal happiness.

PRODUCTION DETAILS

Director, Movement Supervision, Set & Lighting Design, Art Direction: Vasia Vassileiou
Assistant Director: Efsta Sachla
Cast: Anestis Ischnopoulos, Katerina Klavdianou, George Housakos, Georgia Griva, Adamantios Tirel
Original Music: Philippos Peristeris
Photography/Video: Nikos Pagonakis
Assistant Producer: Giannis Tsoukas
Assistant Set Designer: Maviana Margoudh
Mask Creation: Vasilis Lagas
Poster: Marilena Girlemi
Communications Manager: Eleftheria Sakareli
Production: Fail Better Productions

PERFORMANCE DATES

September 20th – October 28th
Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday at 8:00 PM
Duration: 85 minutes 

Wednesday, 11 September 2024 13:36

Sneakerness Athens

From October 11th to 13th, at the Old OSY Depot in Gazi, sneaker enthusiasts will experience an extraordinary event combining shopping, music, food, street art, and everything that makes sneaker culture so unique.

Sneakerness Festival is Europe’s largest streetwear celebration, bringing together sneaker culture fanatics for an event where they can express their passion. Having made its mark in major European cities like Zurich, Amsterdam, Milan, Budapest, and London, this fashion festival is now embracing the global sneaker phenomenon in all its diverse forms.

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But Sneakerness is more than just an event – it’s a worldwide movement uniting sneakerheads (dedicated sneaker collectors and enthusiasts). With over a decade of history, Sneakerness has become the ultimate hub for everything related to sneakers and the culture surrounding them. From rare vintage finds to the latest drops, this is where passion meets fashion.

The Sneakerness Athens Culture

From October 11th to 13th at the Old Depot in Gazi, over 4,000 square meters will showcase top brands from across Europe, as well as unique collectors and sneaker fans. Visitors will get the chance to meet, admire, buy, and sell products in an immersive 360° experience featuring limited-edition models, rare pieces, and exclusive competitions.

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But Sneakerness Athens is much more than a marketplace – it’s a platform that celebrates everything related to street culture. Expect artistic performances, exclusive releases, brand showcases, workshops, panel discussions, DJ sets, live concerts, street food and cocktail courts, gaming stations, tattoo and graffiti corners, and the finest streetwear brands and merch. For sports lovers, basketball – a core element of sneaker culture – will be front and center, with exciting activities in collaboration with top streetwear brands.

Join us for a one-of-a-kind event that brings together the best of sneaker culture and streetwear in the heart of Athens!
Monday, 09 September 2024 17:09

CALIGULA 2.0 At Theatre Of The No

3 Performances Only: 17 -19 SEPTEMBER

A comic tragedy about war in Europe today.

Limited Offer: 20 Tickets at €5 available at Box Office, Arrival by 19:00
 
Theatre of the No, Athens' premier English theatre, presents «Caligula 2.0», a darkly comic tragedy, written and directed by acclaimed Norwegian playwright Rolf Alme. This thought- provoking play delves into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, offering a fresh perspective through the lens of history and myth. As part of an international tour, this performance from Norway will , will be performed in Athens for a limited engagement on September 17th, 18th, and 19th, followed by a performance in Heraklion.

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Featuring an international cast from Ukraine, Poland, Australia, and Norway, Rolf Alme's latest play brings the historical figure of Caligula into the 21st century, reflecting on the current global landscape, while emphasizing universal themes of power, greed, and the inevitable downfall of tyrants.

«Caligula 2.0» unfolds the story of a society built on fear and surveillance, where the emperor's totalitarian system is slowly disintegrating due to endless wars and international sanctions. As the play progresses, audiences are transported to the second year—or perhaps the twentieth—of Caligula's rule. The emperor, bored and restless, seeks to secure his place in history as the greatest tyrant the world has ever known. Despite his total control over a rich continent, an array of mistresses who fear him, and the possession of over 700 cars (which haven't been invented yet), Caligula finds himself unfulfilled.

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In a desperate bid to distract himself, Caligula launches a special imperial operation to conquer a neighboring country, with the full support of a creative and eager propaganda machine. Meanwhile, corrupt oligarchs nervously applaud from the sidelines, and army generals watch their backs in fear of betrayal. As the empire runs out of food and cannon fodder, the question remains: will Caligula maintain his grip on power, or is he destined to face his final sunset with only his favorite horse, and newly appointed senator, Incitatus, for company?

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Open Discussion

After the performance, THEATRE OF THE NO invites the audience to engage in an open discussion about the play with the cast.

CAST

Director and writer: Rolf Alme
Music: Christian Hestø
Cast: Piotr Misztela (Poland), Elisabeth Dahl, Christian Hestø (Norway), Tyrone Douglas (Australia) and Anna Darmoriz (Ukraine).
Running time: 90 minutes, no interval
Production: Dahl/Hestø Productions
Funded by: Fritt Ord and Fond for utøvende kunstnere
Communication & Public Relations: Eleftheria Sakareli

PERFORMANCES DATES:

Τuesday 17th , Wednesday 18th , Thursday 19th September at 20:00
Duration: 90 minutes

Thursday, 05 September 2024 12:35

Plisskën Festival 2024

Attention all music aficionados! Get ready to dive into the vibrant sounds of the Plisskën Festival, making its much-anticipated return for an exciting autumn edition this September! Set to unfold in mid-September, this festival promises a dynamic lineup featuring a mix of internationally celebrated acts and emerging talents that will keep your spirits high and your feet moving. Experience everything from the mind-bending psych rock of French band Slift to the infectious Latin rumble rock of London’s Los Bitchos, all in the iconic setting of Pireos 260. Whether you’re a longtime festival-goer or a curious newcomer, you won't want to miss this incredible musical event, now in its 14th year!

The festival kicks off on September 13 with a headlining performance by the electrifying Swedish post-punk band Viagra Boys, renowned as one of the most exhilarating bands of our era. They’ll be joined by an impressive array of talent, including Mall Grab, Acid Pauli, and Billy Nomates, alongside the psychedelic power trio Slift. Also gracing the stage will be the unique b2b collaboration of Jacques Greene and Nosaj Thing, plus Bar Italia, Love Remain, Terr, Nekrotsoulithra, and the innovative Kinshasa-based group KOKOKO!

Day two, September 14, promises an equally thrilling lineup with the highly awaited debut of emo-rap sensation Yung Lean. The stage will also be lit up by the lively surf-exotica vibes of Los Bitchos, as well as performances from 2ManyDJs, Casisdead, Nabihah Iqbal, Parra for Cuva, Jennifer Loveless, the Lambrini Girls, Sherelle, Logic1000, and King Kami. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable musical journey!




Thursday, 05 September 2024 12:29

Pavlov's Dog Live In Athens

Get ready for a night to remember as the legendary Pavlov's Dog takes the stage on September 10 at the iconic Kyttaro Live in the heart of Athens! This beloved venue, known for its cozy atmosphere and vibrant musical legacy, is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable performance by one of rock's cult favorites.

Prepare to be mesmerized by Pavlov's Dog's unique blend of progressive rock and lush orchestral arrangements, all brought to life by the captivating vocals of David Surkamp. This is your chance to connect with fellow music enthusiasts and immerse yourself in the rich history of a band that has been captivating audiences for decades.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience Pavlov's Dog up close and personal at one of Athens' most cherished live music spots!
Thursday, 05 September 2024 11:57

Endless Fun At The Kypseli Market

The Municipal Market of Kypseli bursts into life this September, welcoming people from all corners of the globe to experience its vibrant atmosphere. This multicultural hub is not just a place for shopping; it’s a lively space where culture, art, and community intersect. With an exciting lineup of events, this month promises to be filled with unique activities, enriching discussions, and opportunities to connect with others. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this dynamic marketplace.

Here’s a glimpse of what you can look forward to at Kypseli Market this September:

Events 

3rd Lesbian Feminist Festival
Join us for a celebration of diversity and empowerment at the 3rd Lesbian Feminist Festival on September 7 and 8. Engage in thought-provoking discussions, enjoy live concerts, and participate in DJ sets and fashion showcases. This festival is all about connection and celebration in a city that can sometimes feel isolating.
  • When: Saturday, September 7 & Sunday, September 8 || 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Where: Atrium, Creative Lab 2
  • Admission: Free

Athens Beer Weekend
Raise your glasses for the Athens Beer Weekend on September 14 and 15! Dive into a world of fresh craft beer, paired with delicious street food and an upbeat atmosphere filled with live music. Explore unique merchandise from local microbreweries, including custom t-shirts, tote bags, and artisanal jewelry.
  • When: Saturday, September 14 || 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • When: Sunday, September 15 || 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Where: Atrium
  • Admission: Free

Blood Donation Drive
Join the Blood-e initiative in support of voluntary blood donation organized by the Municipal Market of Kypseli.

When:
Tuesday, September 17 || 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Where:
Creative Lab 2
Admission:
Free

Next Stop: Kypseli
Explore the rich history of Kypseli with the theatrical route “Next Stop: Kypseli,” which returns for its 4th season. This guided experience invites you to uncover the hidden beauty, stories, and secrets nestled within the most magical corners of this vibrant neighborhood.
  • When: Sundays, September 15, 22, and 29 || 7:00 PM & 10:00 PM (Duration: 70 minutes)
  • Where: Meeting point at Municipal Market of Kypseli / Exhibition Entrance, Fokionos Negri
  • Tickets: Regular: €7 | Reduced: €5 for unemployed, students, seniors (65+)
  • Purchase: Tickets available via more.com

Kipseli BEAT
On Sunday, September 22, the Municipal Market of Kypseli will host the seventh Kypseli Beat. This season opening event combines music, aperitivo, food, vinyl records, and a celebration of life, all with free admission.

  • When: Sunday, September 22 || 01:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Where: Atrium
  • Admission: Free

AFROfitness
The Municipal Market of Kypseli welcomes the Bantu Dancers to introduce us to the fun world of AFROfitness—a workout that incorporates elements of Afro Dance, feeling like a party! This program combines traditional African dance movements with modern expressions, enhancing fluidity, range of motion, and authentic movement. 
  • When: Monday, September 23 || 07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Where: Atrium
  • Admission: Free with prior reservation

StrayCare Market
Support our furry friends at the StrayCare Market from September 27 to 28! Browse handmade creations and traditional delicacies from across Greece, all while contributing to the welfare of stray animals in the community.
  • When: Friday, September 27 - Sunday, September 28 || 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Where: Atrium
  • Admission: Free

Workshops

Enhance your creativity and well-being with a series of workshops this September.
Art Therapy Workshops: These art therapy workshops, led by expressive arts therapist Marili Topouzoglou, offer a unique opportunity for personal development and self-expression through various artistic methods. Participants will engage in activities such as finger painting, creating ceramic totems, storytelling, and exploring self-portraiture, discovering new ways to connect with memories, sensations, and their inner world. These workshops enhance self-awareness, creativity, and a sense of community, providing a safe space for creative experimentation and emotional expression.
  • When: Every Tuesday from September 3 to November 26 || 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
  • Where: Creative Lab 1
  • Admission: Free with registration here or at 2111824102

Etheras Festival: Join us for workshops with midwives, discussions and Q&A sessions with experts, essential first aid for children and infants, book presentations, and interactive workshops for kids during this weekend of parenting and children's activities.
  • When:
    • Friday, September 6 || 05:00 PM - 09:00 PM || Creative Lab 2
    • Saturday, September 7 || 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM || Creative Lab 1
  • Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster

Creating with Chrysolie: Watercolor Painting
Discover the art of watercolor through the magic of nature! In this workshop, we will explore how to capture natural landscapes and elements using unique watercolor techniques. Participants will learn fundamental techniques and experiment with colors and textures, creating stunning works inspired by the beauty around us. Join us to experience the creative process with a fresh perspective and natural inspiration!
  • When: Saturday, September 14 || 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
  • Where: Creative Lab 2
  • Cost: 22€
  • Reservations: chrysoliesart@gmail.com or 6984561871

Creating with Chrysolie: Mixed Media on Canvas
In this workshop, children aged 4-6 will have the opportunity to experiment with acrylic paints, markers, papers, glues, scissors, stencils, and other creative materials to create unique art pieces. We will combine various techniques and textures on canvas, allowing our little artists to express their imagination and discover the joy of creation.
  • When: Sunday, September 15 || 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
  • Where: Creative Lab 2
  • Cost: 20€
  • Reservations: chrysoliesart@gmail.com or 6984561871
Pop-Up Stores

Kypseli Market features a diverse array of pop-up stores, each offering unique and sustainable products. Hōkō showcases eco-friendly, alternative home décor inspired by Japanese and Scandinavian design, and even includes a plant cutting with every purchase. Urban Bee offers sustainable honey sourced from various neighborhoods, along with curated snacks and gift options. Visit SKRIP, a cozy bookstore featuring titles from Agra and Antipodes, where you can find both classic and contemporary literature, along with engaging discussions and seminars. POLY COOL brings knowledge to life with a permanent shop filled with books on geography, history, psychology, and more, alongside collectible merch and games. At Amigurumi, you’ll discover a workshop specializing in handmade crochet children's toys, celebrating the uniqueness of artisan crafts. Lastly, Modistra Hopemade supports the Network for the Support of Imprisoned and Released Women by offering handmade home goods and accessories, with each purchase contributing to the training and employment of these women in sewing. Explore these vibrant shops for a taste of creativity, sustainability, and community spirit

Thursday, 05 September 2024 11:37

September At The Maria Callas Museum

The Maria Callas Museum of Athens has an exciting lineup of events this September, honoring the legacy of the legendary opera singer and offering a variety of cultural and educational activities for visitors of all ages.

Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store:



Maria Callas Memorial Day | Reduced Admission & Concert | Sunday, September 15

On Sunday, September 15, the Maria Callas Museum commemorates the anniversary of the soprano’s passing (September 16) by offering reduced admission to its exhibition spaces.
At 6:00 PM, across from the museum at Mitropoleos Square, a free concert will be held in her memory. The ARUNDOS wind trio from the Athens Municipal Symphony Orchestra will perform a soothing and sweet tribute featuring works by Mozart, Beethoven, and Ibert. This peaceful concert is the perfect way to reflect on the life and legacy of Maria Callas.

European Heritage Days | Sunday, September 29

The Maria Callas Museum joins the celebration of European Heritage Days 2024, offering free admission to all visitors on Sunday, September 29, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. To visit, you will need to reserve a free entry ticket in advance.

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Shining a Light on Light | Lecture & Workshop | Sunday, September 29

In collaboration with the Industrial Gas Museum, the Maria Callas Museum will celebrate European Heritage Days 2024 with a unique event focused on the evolution of lighting in the theater.
Featuring a 20th-century gas lamp and a book of records from the lamplighters who worked at the gas plant in Gazi, the event will include expert talks and a hands-on workshop for adults. Stay tuned for more details on this illuminating experience!

On the last two Wednesdays of September (18/09 and 25/09), the museum offers free guided tours in English, included in the admission price. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the life and career of Maria Callas and the art of opera, discovering the museum’s exclusive dedication to this great diva.

MCM Kids | Educational Programs for Schools and Families Begin

This September, the Maria Callas Museum returns with a refreshed lineup of educational programs for both schools and families. Each Sunday, the museum will offer playful and imaginative family-friendly activities that explore the world of the arts. Plan your visit today!

Dance the Traviata! | Creative Movement Workshop for Kids | Sunday, September 15

Kids and their families will get to immerse themselves in the world of opera through a creative movement workshop based on Giuseppe Verdi’s famous work, La Traviata. This interactive program will have participants using their bodies to bring scenes from the opera to life, helping them understand the flow of movement and inspiring them to create their own choreography.

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La Mia Maria | Create Your Own Postcard! | Every Saturday and Sunday

Where will your postcard travel? Every Saturday and Sunday in September, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM, children and adults can create their own souvenir postcard featuring a portrait of Maria Callas using the stencil technique. In this fun and artistic activity, participants will get to know the iconic diva and take home a personalized keepsake to remember the experience.
 
After your tour, don’t forget to stop by the museum café for a refreshing drink or visit the museum shop for unique gifts and souvenirs!

September is here and with it comes the exciting start of a new school year. But after a long, carefree summer, getting back into the school routine can feel like a big change. How can you make sure your child is ready to tackle their first day with confidence and enthusiasm? By following these fun and practical tips, you can turn the back-to-school transition into an exciting and positive experience for the whole family!

Create an Awesome Study Zone

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Help your child design a personalized study space where they can focus and feel comfortable. Let them pick out some fun accessories like colorful organizers, inspiring posters, or even a cool desk lamp. The more they help create the space, the more excited they’ll be to use it. It’s a simple but effective way to get them into the mindset for learning!

Set Goals—And Make Them Exciting!

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Instead of just focusing on grades, sit down together and brainstorm some fun academic or personal goals for the school year. It could be learning a new skill, mastering a subject, or even joining a new club. Write them down on a goal board and celebrate progress throughout the year! Goals help keep kids motivated, but making them collaborative and celebratory will keep the excitement going long after school starts.

Go on a Back-to-School Shopping Adventure

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Who doesn’t love shopping for fresh supplies? Turn the annual back-to-school shopping trip into an adventure by allowing your child to pick out items that reflect their style. Whether it's a new backpack, colorful notebooks, or personalized pencils, giving them some say in their supplies adds excitement and a sense of ownership over the upcoming year.

Create a Morning Routine Countdown

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Getting out the door in time for school can be hectic. Make it easier by practicing your morning routine a few days before school starts. Turn it into a game by setting a timer and seeing how quickly they can get dressed, eat breakfast, and gather their supplies. Kids love a challenge, and this will help them learn how to manage their time in a fun way!

Highlight the Excitement of a New School Year

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While school can feel like a big change, it’s also a time for new opportunities and experiences. Talk to your child about all the exciting things they can look forward to: making new friends, learning interesting topics, or joining after-school activities. By focusing on the positive aspects, you can help shift any nervousness into anticipation for the adventure ahead.

Kick Off the School Year with a Family Tradition

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Celebrate the start of school with a fun family tradition that your child will look forward to every year. Whether it’s a special back-to-school dinner, an ice cream outing, or a movie night, creating a joyful event around the new school year helps them feel that it’s a special and exciting time. Traditions like this can turn the focus from nerves to excitement.




Once again, Santorini captivates the attention of the global sports community as it prepares for the 7th Santorini Experience, which will take place on October 3-6, 2024. Both professional and amateur athletes will have the opportunity to enjoy sports activities in breathtaking locations on the island, such as the Volcano and the trail connecting Oia with Fira, featuring the impressive Caldera and stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

On the morning of Friday, October 4, participants will swim from the Volcano to the old port of Fira, with the imposing view of the island in front of them, in the thrilling 1.5-miles (2.4 km) open water swimming race. Santorini’s volcano is the most famous among the volcanoes that make up the volcanic arc of the Aegean. It is one of the largest underwater volcanoes that remains active, with its famous caldera being the only inhabited one in the world. The swimming route will take place, as always, with absolute safety in the enchanting waters of Santorini (average water temperature of 22-23 degrees Celsius). The race’s safety will be ensured by specialized lifeguards and rescue boats, while the organizers will provide all athletes with safety buoys, offering extra security to each participant. The use of individual floats is mandatory for everyone. The Technical Director of the swimming race is Nikos Gemelos, an accomplished swimming coach with Olympic and world accolades, who once again had an athlete competing in their sixth Olympic Games.

2 Santorini Experience by Elias Lefas

From Paris Olympics to Santorini 

Santorini will once again be in the spotlight this year, with athletes from the global elite of open water swimming, who participated in Paris Olympics, expected to attend the event. Specifically, the swimming race will feature Italian world and European champion Barbara Pozzobon, Italian world and European champion and Olympic fourth-place finisher Domenico Acerenza, and Hungarian silver medalist and Olympic fourth-place finisher Anna Olasz. They will compete on the challenging and fast course of Santorini Experience, showcasing their strength and skill. The event will also be attended by the Italian coach of top Olympic and world championship successes, Fabrizio Antonelli. 



Valuable and Unique Prizes this Year 

hoper, the company that brings scheduled helicopter flights to Greece, will be the Official Helicopter Partner of Santorini Experience for the first time. hoper is rewriting the rules of transportation in Greece, bringing destinations closer than ever. As part of this year’s event, the innovative company will offer the winner of the 15 km running race and the winner of the open water swimming race a helicopter tour, with the safety provided by its fleet.

Great names are expected to participate in the running events as well, such as HOKA athlete Alexandros Karykas, who has competed in the 116 km Trail Alsace Grand Est by UTMB in France, the 100 km Julian Alps Ultra Sky Trail in Slovenia, and the 73 km Chianti Ultra Trail 2023 in Italy. HOKA, one of the top brands in running, is participating for the first time as the Official Footwear Sponsor of the event. As part of its participation, the company will offer a unique pair of HOKA shoes as a gift to both the first male and female finishers in the 15 km race powered by HOKA. More names will be announced in the coming weeks.

In addition to swimming, participants can register for the 5km “Aristides Alafouzos” powered by Miele, the 10km powered by SIXT, a member of MOTODYNAMICS Group, or the 15km powered by HOKA. 

To register, please CLICK HERE!


1 Santorini Experience by Elias Lefas


For more information on the terms of participation, click here: https://www.santorini-experience.com/en/event-info/terms.html  

The Legendary Georgios Printezis in Santorini with Joe Arlauckas! 

Santorini Experience enriches this year’s schedule with the addition of the Olympic sport of basketball. For the first time in the event, two prominent sports figures, the two-time champion and EuroLeague record holder Georgios Printezis and the EuroLeague legend and European champion with Real Madrid Joe Arlauckas, join forces to teach the island’s kids the basic principles of basketball. On Sunday, October 6, children from Santorini’s basketball clubs will have the opportunity to meet these international basketball stars and learn the “secrets” of basketball at the Indoor Gymnasium Basketball Court of the Municipality of Thira.

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Free Participation for Thira Municipality Citizens

The citizens of Thira Municipality can participate for free. Thira residents can register for free exclusively at Alafouzos Sport, the event’s Official Sports Store, at Fira in Santorini.
 
Travel to Santorini with a 30% Discount on Ferry Tickets

Those visiting Santorini by ferry for Santorini Experience can travel with the safety and comfort of Blue Star Ferries, the event’s Official Sponsor. The top Greek shipping company offers a 30% discount on ferry tickets (all seats except cabins) from Piraeus, Cyclades, and Dodecanese to Santorini on round-trip tickets and 30% on vehicles for those participating in the event and visiting the island from October 1 to 8, 2024. Each person who has completed their registration is entitled to the same discount for 3 additional people (if they are their escorts).
 
Participants who have completed their registration can contact the following port offices for seat reservations and ticket issuance:
-Piraeus, GIOVANTI TRAVEL, Tel. +30 210-4119171
-Santorini, DAKOUTROS TRAVEL, Tel. +30 22860 22201

Premium Mobility Partner of the event is SIXT, a member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group. 
Athina Luxury Suites is the Silver Sponsor.
GoPro is the event’s Official Action Camera.
HOKA is the Official Footwear Sponsor.
Vikos Natural Mineral Water is the Official Water. 
hoper is the Official Helicopter Partner.
Miele is the event’s Bronze Sponsor.
Alafouzos Sport is the event’s Official Sports Store.
Blue Star Ferries is the Official Sponsor.
Luanvi is the Official Technical T-shirt.
Kois Optics are the Official Optics Partner.
Nobu Hotel Santorini, Santorini’s Best Driver, and Messinian Spa are the event’s Partners.
π³= Plastic Pollution Prevention is the Sustainability Partner.
The event will be implemented with the invaluable support of our Hospitality Sponsors, who promote the island with special prices and offer enormous support to the event. The confirmed hotels so far are the following: Athina Luxury Suites, Nobu Hotel Santorini, NOUS Santorini, Katikies Garden Santorini, Vedema, A Luxury Collection Resort Santorini (Empiria Group), Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas, Santo Mine Oia Suites, Apeiron Blue, 270 Oia’s View, West East Suites, Lydia’s House, Santorini Folia Bianca, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini, Coco-Mat Hotel Santorini, De Sol Hotel & Spa, The Majestic Hotel Santorini (Kord Hotels), Meltemi Suites, Meltemi Village, Atlantis Beach, Neoklassiko Koukouli, Noni Studios, Santoriviera House, Ifestau4, En Plo Boutique Suites, Epavlis Grace, Fanouris Condo, MONOLiTHIA, Epavlis Hotel (Meraki Collection), Eteoro Suites Santorini, K & K Unique Holiday Homes, Blue Dolphins, Loizos Stylish Residences, Venus Sunrise Suites & Villas, Sienna Eco Resort. 


Check HERE for the available special offers from the hospitality sponsors for the participants of Santorini Experience, which are only valid during the event’s days.

Santorini Experience is organized by the Municipality of Thira and ActiveMedia Group. The event is held under the auspices of the Greek Ministry of Tourism and the Greek National Tourism Organization.

For more information visit: www.santorini-experience.com  
#SantoriniExperience

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