LIFE & CULTURE
XpatAthens
Thursday, 27 February 2025 13:46
Discovering Athens: Your Ultimate Travel Experience With Bounce Luggage Storage
Athens, the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and ancient civilization, is one of the most fascinating destinations in Europe. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern life. But there's one thing that could put a damper on your explorations—carrying heavy bags around. Thankfully, with Bounce luggage storage, you can travel light and hassle-free in Athens, ensuring you get the most out of your adventure.
Why Athens Is a Must-Visit Destination
Why Athens Is a Must-Visit Destination
Athens, with its iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, is a treasure trove of history. As you wander through its charming streets, you’ll be transported back to the times of the great philosophers and warriors. Explore the ancient ruins, relax in the buzzing Plaka neighborhood, and experience world-class Greek cuisine. Athens is a city that is both ancient and contemporary, offering travelers a variety of experiences that cater to all interests.
But, as with any major city, navigating Athens with luggage can be overwhelming. The city's narrow streets, busy public transport, and long walks between tourist hotspots make lugging heavy bags a real challenge. That’s where Bounce luggage storage comes to the rescue!
Travel Light with Bounce Luggage Storage
Bounce provides a simple, convenient, and secure solution for travelers who want to explore Athens without being weighed down by their luggage. The beauty of using Bounce lies in its flexibility. You can book a bag drop location in Athens with Bounce, and enjoy your day without worrying about your belongings.
Imagine arriving in Athens and immediately heading out to see the Acropolis, without having to worry about your suitcase or backpack. Or perhaps you’re spending your last day in Athens, and you don’t want to be dragging your bags around while exploring the quirky shops in Monastiraki. Bounce allows you to store your luggage in trusted local shops, cafés, or hotels, allowing you to make the most of your day.
How Bounce Makes Your Athens Trip Hassle-Free
- Convenient Locations: Bounce partners with trusted local businesses across Athens, from cafes and shops to hotels. You can easily find a Bounce location close to major tourist attractions, transport hubs, and neighborhoods like Plaka, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki.
- Easy Booking Process: With Bounce, booking a luggage storage spot is incredibly easy. Simply go online, find a nearby location, and reserve your storage space. You’ll be able to drop off your luggage in no time and get on with your Athens adventure.
- Affordable and Flexible: Bounce offers affordable rates, and you can store your bags for as little or as long as you need. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of freedom or need a full day to explore the city, Bounce has you covered.
- Safety First: Your luggage will be stored securely, so you can focus on your sightseeing without a care. Bounce’s partners ensure that your bags are in a safe environment, protected by insurance for added peace of mind.
- Luggage Types: Whether you have a backpack, a suitcase, or something more unusual, Bounce can accommodate different sizes of luggage. This means you don't have to worry about finding a place that fits your specific needs.
Top Spots to Explore in Athens Without Your Luggage
Once your luggage is safely stored, you’re free to dive into all that Athens has to offer.
- The Acropolis & Parthenon: No visit to Athens is complete without experiencing the Acropolis. This iconic hilltop complex is home to the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. You’ll be able to wander freely and soak in the history without the burden of your bags.
- Plaka and Anafiotika: Wander through the quaint streets of Plaka, Athens’ historic neighborhood. Lose yourself in its narrow alleys, filled with traditional Greek tavernas, artisan shops, and cafés. If you want to go further, visit the picturesque Anafiotika area, a hidden gem with whitewashed buildings that resemble a Greek island village.
- Monastiraki Flea Market: A must for shoppers and culture lovers, Monastiraki is the place to be for street markets, antique shops, and local vendors. With Bounce, you won’t have to drag your purchases around—you can take your time and pick up souvenirs at your own pace.
- National Archaeological Museum: For history buffs, this museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, including the famous Mask of Agamemnon and statues from the Acropolis. It’s one of the largest museums in Greece, so it’s better to visit without the extra weight.
Travel Smarter with Bounce in Athens
Athens offers endless adventures, and with Bounce luggage storage, you can make the most of your trip by exploring the city unencumbered. Whether you're gazing at ancient ruins, shopping at local markets, or sipping coffee in a café, having the freedom to travel light will make your experience even more enjoyable. So, next time you're in Athens, let Bounce take the weight off your shoulders—literally and figuratively—so you can immerse yourself in the wonders of this incredible city!
Don’t let your luggage hold you back. Travel smart, travel light, and let Athens captivate you!
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City Discovery
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Friday, 28 February 2025 01:39
Oenorama 2025
Greece’s largest and most important wine show returns to the Zappeion Megaron from March 7 to 10, bringing together thousands of wine lovers to explore over 2,500 wines from 375 winemakers across Greece and beyond.
Since 1994, Oenorama has been the meeting point for Greek wine pioneers, from industry legends to experimental producers working with indigenous yeasts, rare Greek varietals, and natural vinification techniques.
All of Greece’s wine regions and grape varieties will be showcased, along with a selection of imported wines. Thirteen Cypriot wineries will also present their emerging labels made from native grapes.
Tasters will focus on fresh white and rosé wines from the 2024 vintage, as well as older reds. At the Oenorama Tasting Gallery, a walk-around, self-serve space, visitors can discover recent releases and legacy wines that have shaped the Greek Wine Renaissance.
More than just a tasting, Oenorama is a deep dive into Greek wine, offering both professionals and enthusiasts the chance to experience its latest trends and innovations.
📅 When: March 7-10, 2025
🕒 Times: Friday: 17:00 - 21:00 Saturday - Monday: 10:00 - 14:00 & 15:00 - 19:00
📅 When: March 7-10, 2025
🕒 Times: Friday: 17:00 - 21:00 Saturday - Monday: 10:00 - 14:00 & 15:00 - 19:00
Published in
Events In Athens
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Friday, 28 February 2025 01:28
OENORAMA 2025 - The Ultimate Greek Wine Tasting Experience
Greece’s largest and most important wine show is back at the Zappeion Megaron, where, March 7 to 10, thousands of wine lovers will convene to taste more than 2,500 wines from 375 winemakers from Greece and around the world.
Since 1994, Oenorama has served as the meeting point for those who shape Greek wine, including industry legends and pioneering producers experimenting with indigenous yeasts, less common Greek varietals, and natural vinification techniques.
All of Greece’s wine-producing regions, grape varieties, spirits, and various types of wines will be showcased, including many imported wines. Thirteen Cypriot wineries will also be present with their emerging wines made from native grape varieties.
Tasters will focus on white and rosé wines from the 2024 vintage as they become available on the market, along with older vintages of reds. At the Oenorama Tasting Gallery, a walk-around, self-serve area, visitors can explore new releases (wines launched within the last 12 months) and legacy wines—labels that have existed for over 20 years and have significantly contributed to the so-called Greek Wine Renaissance.
But Oenorama is more than just a tasting; it is a journey into the depths of the Greek vineyard, offering both trade professionals and passionate wine lovers the chance to explore the most significant developments in wine.
More info: www.oenorama.com
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Local News
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Thursday, 27 February 2025 12:56
Carnival At The SNFCC
Sunday, March 2 at Stavros Niarchos Park is all about celebration! 🎉 Live music, percussion parades, a DJ set, workshops for all ages, costumes, games, and dancing will set the stage for an unforgettable Sunday.
🎧 DJ Palov kicks things off with an eclectic mix of jazz, funk, hip hop, reggae, and dub before passing the baton to Los Petralonicos and Daniela Bolano, whose fusion of Latin, swing, jazz, and traditional sounds will get everyone moving. Meanwhile, the dynamic percussion group Bloco Swingueira will electrify the park with Brazilian beats and carnival energy.
Meet the Artists
🎶 Los Petralonicos
Blending the psychedelic sounds of the Amazon with Latin swing and jazz, Los Petralonicos take audiences on a musical journey full of energy and nostalgia. Their signature mix of Cumbia Psicodélica and Chicha Peruana invites the crowd to become part of the performance, turning every show into a lively, immersive experience.
Blending the psychedelic sounds of the Amazon with Latin swing and jazz, Los Petralonicos take audiences on a musical journey full of energy and nostalgia. Their signature mix of Cumbia Psicodélica and Chicha Peruana invites the crowd to become part of the performance, turning every show into a lively, immersive experience.
🎛️ DJ Palov
A true musical explorer, DJ Palov transforms each set into a rhythmic adventure. Fusing Latin, cumbia, afro, jazz, funk, hip hop, reggae, and dub, he unearths global sounds that make every performance unique. Whether spinning at major European festivals alongside artists like Quantic and Bonobo or digging through rare vinyl collections, he’s always pushing the boundaries of music.
A true musical explorer, DJ Palov transforms each set into a rhythmic adventure. Fusing Latin, cumbia, afro, jazz, funk, hip hop, reggae, and dub, he unearths global sounds that make every performance unique. Whether spinning at major European festivals alongside artists like Quantic and Bonobo or digging through rare vinyl collections, he’s always pushing the boundaries of music.
🥁 Bloco Swingueira
Pure carnival energy! Since 2014, Bloco Swingueira has been bringing the beats of Brazil to Athens with their infectious samba afro and samba reggae rhythms. A staple of SNFCC’s Carnival celebrations, their high-energy performances and workshops create an atmosphere of pure joy.
Pure carnival energy! Since 2014, Bloco Swingueira has been bringing the beats of Brazil to Athens with their infectious samba afro and samba reggae rhythms. A staple of SNFCC’s Carnival celebrations, their high-energy performances and workshops create an atmosphere of pure joy.
Schedule of Events
📍 11:30–12:00 | Bloco Swingueira Parade | Starting point: Canal
🎧 12:00–13:30 | DJ Palov | Great Lawn
🥁 12:40–13:00 | Bloco Swingueira Show | Starting point: Canal
🎶 13:30–15:00 | Los Petralonicos | Great Lawn
🎧 12:00–13:30 | DJ Palov | Great Lawn
🥁 12:40–13:00 | Bloco Swingueira Show | Starting point: Canal
🎶 13:30–15:00 | Los Petralonicos | Great Lawn
Get ready for a day filled with music, movement, and celebration! ✨💃🕺
Published in
Events In Athens
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Thursday, 27 February 2025 11:00
Clean Monday At The SNFCC
The SNFCC welcomes Clean Monday with a vibrant celebration of Greek music and dance! On Monday, March 3, we embrace the arrival of Lent and spring with a spectacular traditional festival.
From 12:00 to 15:00, ethnomusicologist Lambros Liavas curates and presents a rich mosaic of Greek musical and dance traditions on the Great Lawn, inviting everyone to take part in this cherished cultural gathering.
With extensive expertise in Greek folk music—gained through academic research and firsthand experiences across the country—Lambros Liavas guides us through the time-honored farewell to the Carnival season. Expect an exciting fusion of carnival mimic dances with kalamatiano, kangelia, tsamiko, Macedonian syrto, Thracian zonaradiko, Constantinopolitan hasapiko, Smyrnaic karsilama, Cretan pentozali, and island balos dances.
Leading the musical ensemble is the dynamic duo of Alexandros Arkadopoulos (clarinet, flute) and Giannis Pavlopoulos (violin, vocals), accompanied by accordion virtuoso Thanos Stavridis and trumpeter Tasos Valkanis, who adds a lively Macedonian brass flair. Also contributing to the rhythm and melody are Iordanis Kouzinopoulos on laouto and vocals, and Manousos Klapakis on percussion.
Joining them are six remarkable young vocalists—graduates of the NKUA Postgraduate Program in Ethnomusicology and Musical Practice: Sevastiani Vletsi, Emmeleia Damanaki, Marianthi-Ippolyti Katsari, Chrysi Tzavla, Dimitra Tsagkaraki, and Varvara Tsiviki. The event also features Pontic lyra player Ilias Avramidis and Cretan lyra player Manolis Bountalakis, adding their own regional flair to the celebration.
Bringing the festivities to life, the dance troupes of the Folk Society “Xoropaideia” (led by Vasilis Karfis and Maria Ziaka) and the Pontic Association “Argonafte Komninoi” (under the direction of Kostas Savvinidis) invite everyone to join hands and dance together in a joyful celebration of tradition!
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Events In Athens
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Friday, 21 March 2025 10:40
Japan Festival 2025
The 4th Japan Festival, Greece’s most anticipated Japanese culture festival—and the only one of its kind in the country—is returning BIGGER and more EXCITING than ever on the weekend of April 26-27, 2025, at the Peristeri Exhibition Center!
Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in both contemporary and traditional Japanese culture through a variety of engaging activities, including workshops, talks, presentations, live demonstrations, and discussion panels, all aimed at showcasing the beauty and richness of Japanese cultural heritage.
🎎 What to Expect at Japan Festival 2025
Dozens of Greek and international artists, academics, authors, comic creators, gamers, cosplayers, and martial artists who share a passion for Japan will come together to offer an interactive and unforgettable experience for festival goers.
🌟 Highlights include:
👘 Kimono showcases
🛍️ Exclusive Japanese merchandise & delicacies
🌱 Bonsai exhibition
🎤 Live concerts
🎭 Cosplay parade
✂️ Interactive workshops (origami, calligraphy, tea ceremony, kintsugi, and more!)
Visitors will embark on a cultural journey through Japan, right in the heart of Greece!
🎌 Follow Japan Festival on Social Media:
📺 YouTube: @JapanFestivalGreece1
📘 Facebook: JapanFestivalGR
📷 Instagram: @japanfestival_gr
🐦 X (Twitter): @JapanFestivalGR
📘 Facebook: JapanFestivalGR
📷 Instagram: @japanfestival_gr
🐦 X (Twitter): @JapanFestivalGR
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Events In Athens
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Thursday, 27 February 2025 10:09
Japan Festival Returns For Its 4th Year – Bigger & More Exciting Than Ever!
A Journey Through Time and the Beauty of the Land of the Rising Sun
The 4th Japan Festival, Greece’s most anticipated Japanese culture festival—and the only one of its kind in the country—is returning BIGGER and more EXCITING than ever on the weekend of April 26-27, 2025, at the Peristeri Exhibition Center!Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in both contemporary and traditional Japanese culture through a variety of engaging activities, including workshops, talks, presentations, live demonstrations, and discussion panels, all aimed at showcasing the beauty and richness of Japanese cultural heritage.
Dozens of Greek and international artists, academics, authors, comic creators, gamers, cosplayers, and martial artists who share a passion for Japan will come together to offer an interactive and unforgettable experience for festival goers. Highlights include taiko drum performances, kimono showcases, exclusive Japanese merchandise & delicacies, bonsai exhibition, live concerts, cosplay parade, interactive workshops (origami, calligraphy, tea ceremony, kintsugi, and more!).
So far, the festival has been held three times (2019, 2022, 2024), attracting over 18,000 visitors in total!
Japan Festival 2024 in Numbers:
- Over 8,000 visitors in two days
- 13,000+ social media followers
- 26 talks, presentations & screenings
- 2 Panels featuring well-known Anime actors
- 4 Live Streaming events from Japan
- 40 FREE cultural workshops (calligraphy, tea ceremony, sumi-e, origami, sushi-making, taiko drumming, Japanese swordsmanship, etc.)
- 16 Japanese-themed art exhibitions (kimono, bonsai, origami, sumi-e, photography, Japanese artifacts, etc.
- 32 stage presentations with 12 hours of live performances
- 70 artists & creators, plus 20 exhibitors & vendors
- Traditional Japanese board games (Go, Shogi, Hanafuda, etc.)
- Retro & modern Japanese video games
- Cosplay parade with prize giveaway
- Martial arts & cultural demonstrations
- Cosplay Photo & Video Booth
What Makes Japan Festival Greece Unique? The 6 Pillars of the Festival
- Exhibitions – Showcasing Japanese visual and performing arts through interactive displays and artistic collaborations.
- Workshops – Over 40 free cultural workshops, offering hands-on experiences in calligraphy, tea ceremony, sumi-e, origami, Japanese bookbinding, sushi-making, taiko drumming, swordsmanship, kintsugi, and more! (Pre-registration required due to limited spots.)
- Talks & Presentations – Live discussions and expert panels exploring various aspects of Japanese culture, traditions, literature, philosophy, and daily life.
- Interactive Panels & Cultural Dialogue – Creating a bridge between Greek and Japanese cultures through insightful discussions with academics, artists, and cultural representatives.
- Film Screenings – Presenting a selection of Japanese films & series, from pop culture classics to traditional cinematic masterpieces.
- Commercial & Artist Alley – Featuring 70+ artists, vendors, and exhibitors, blending traditional & pop culture elements into a vibrant shopping and art space.
About the Venue & Organizers
The Japan Festival Greece is organized by Rising Sun Productions, in collaboration with Athens Bushido Center and under the auspices of:
- Greek-Japanese Association
- UNESCO Club of Piraeus & Islands (More sponsors to be announced soon!)
🏛 Venue: Peristeri Exhibition Center
📍 3000 sq.m. exhibition space
🚇 10-minute walk from "Anthoupoli" Metro Station
🚗 1,000 parking spaces available
📍 3000 sq.m. exhibition space
🚇 10-minute walk from "Anthoupoli" Metro Station
🚗 1,000 parking spaces available
Meet the Organizers
Rising Sun Productions
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Panos Agrios (Event Organizer, Public Relations)
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Dorita Papadodima (Production & Event Management)
Panos Agrios has been involved in sports and martial arts from a young age. Aikido, along with a trip to Japan, proved to be pivotal in his life and future path. He decided to pursue Aikido professionally, take Japanese language lessons, and travel to Japan again and again to deeply explore the Land of the Rising Sun. At the same time, his studies in antiquities conservation instilled in him a sensitivity toward the arts and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Panos Agrios was accepted as a student at the oldest school of Japanese swordsmanship, Katori Shinto Ryu. After years of training, he took the keppan blood oath in the presence of Nobutoshi Otake sensei, officially becoming a member of the Katori Shinto Ryu family.
Since then, Panos Agrios has continuously attended advanced training seminars in Greece and abroad. He is a certified Jiu-Jitsu coach and Aikido instructor and volunteers in the Aikido teaching program at KETHEA in the women's prison of Thebes.
Dorita Papadodima was captivated by the Land of the Rising Sun through her interest in Japanese culture and the arts, and later, in its music as well. She soon decided to deepen her knowledge by studying the Japanese language and actively participating in organizing cultural and educational events in Greece, such as the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) examinations and the smooth operation of the active Greek-Japanese Association. Naturally, traveling to Japan was an inevitable step for Dorita Papadodima, as was making many friends from Japan! Dorita is the quiet force behind the festival—the person you want by your side when managing large and demanding projects.
Together, they founded the Japan Festival Greece, turning their love for Japanese culture into Greece’s premier immersive Japanese cultural event!
Artistic Direction & Social Media: art.hub team
- Konstantinos Moraitis
- Margarita Bourneli
- Efi Konst
Press & Content Management:
- Michaela Konstantellou
- Eli Kritharaki
Marketing & PR:
- Nikos Kolokatsis
Japanese Language & Translations:
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Viki Tsiousta
Published in
Local News
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Wednesday, 26 February 2025 12:16
Lesvia – A Documentary By Tzeli Hadjidimitriou
The multi-award-winning documentary by Tzeli Hadjidimitriou in a special screening at Danaos, with the director in attendance
With Greek Subtitles.
CLICK HERE to watch the official trailer!
With Greek Subtitles.
CLICK HERE to watch the official trailer!
The first feature-length documentary by Tzeli Hadjidimitriou will be presented in a special screening on Friday, March 7, at 21:30 at Danaos Cinema. Following the screening, there will be a discussion with the director.
Synopsis
In the 1970s, lesbians from around the world began arriving in a small village on the Greek island of Lesvos. As tensions with the locals grew, filmmaker Tzeli Hadjidimitriou—a native of Lesvos and a lesbian herself—tells a 40+ year story of love, community, conflicts, and the quest for acceptance.
This could be any beautiful town on any picturesque Greek island. But it isn't. Eresos, a village with a current population of 1,581, carries a unique historical and cultural significance. Connected to the ancient poet Sappho, Eresos has, for decades, been a beacon and a utopia for the global lesbian community.
For over 40 years, lesbians from around the world have gathered here in search of love, freedom, and a sense of belonging. But their relationship with the local community has not always been smooth. Who defines the true meaning of the word Lesbian? And how ready can a small society be to embrace a complete shift from the heteronormative model—let alone become a symbol of it?
Filmmaker, photographer, and author Tzeli Hadjidimitriou carries the identity of a Lesvian both in the literal and cultural sense. With Lesvia, her debut feature-length documentary, she delivers a powerful record of Eresos’ transformation from the 1970s to today, preserving an essential piece of LGBTQ+ history. The film brings to life the story of a place and a community through rare archival footage, diaries, photographs, videos, and interviews with the people who have shaped its identity over the years.
Lesvia premiered in the International Competition section of the 26th Thessaloniki Documentary Festival, where it received a Special Mention (Mermaid Award) and the Hellenic Film Center Award for Best Debut Greek Director. The documentary also won the Jury Prize and the Audience Award at Festival Écrans Mixtes in Lyon and has been showcased and awarded at numerous international festivals over the past year. Highlights include: Audience Award – Wicked Queer: Boston’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival, Best Feature Film – Zinegoak Film Festival, Festival Favorites & Director’s Choice Awards – Palm Springs LGBTQ+ Film Festival, Best Feature Film (DOK International Jury Story) – Zinegoak Film Festival & Special Mention – Queer Porto.
Director’s Note
I was born and raised on the island of Lesvos, whose light, people, and landscapes have always inspired me. In all my previous work, I have sought to capture the spirit of Lesvos and its people. With Lesvia, my first feature film, I wanted to take the stage as a proud member of the lesbian community and tell the story of how this unique community was formed.
The film is the result of ten years of work, during which I collected material and conducted in-depth conversations with dozens of members of the lesbian community and locals from Eresos. I hope I have given everyone the space to be their authentic selves.
Eresos itself—this breathtaking volcanic landscape with its endless beach, blue waters, and unique light that once inspired Sappho—is one of the central characters of the film. Its image, shifting through different seasons, intertwines with my own personal story. In this sense, Lesvia is both a personal and a collective narrative. It is not just my story, but the story of hundreds of lesbians who have fought to carve out a space where they can exist freely and safely. A space where the lesbian community continues to evolve and expand, offering an undeniable and secure haven for self-expression.
About the Director
Tzeli Hadjidimitriou was born and raised in Lesvos. She is an award-winning filmmaker, visual artist, and author. Her photography has been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in Australia, China, Italy, Turkey, and Greece and has been published in numerous photobooks. She developed a passion for cinema through workshops with Michelangelo Antonioni and later studied Cinematography in Rome. Since 1990, she has been filming, photographing, and documenting the lives of Lesvos’ residents.
Her book A Girl’s Guide to Lesbos (2012) was the first guide to document the lesbian history of Eresos and its connection to the ancient poet Sappho.
She is a founding member of Anemos Dimirourgias, a creative initiative based in Athens that produces works exploring gender, sexuality, and cultural diversity through film, documentaries, photography, visual arts, and symposia. Lesvia is her first feature-length documentary.
About CineDoc
CLICK HERE to view the CineDoc 2024-2025 Program in Greek!
CineDoc selectively screens and distributes award-winning Greek and foreign documentaries as part of the Cinedoc Festival. The screenings are organized in cooperation with the French Institute of Greece, Danaos Cinema, the Thessaloniki Film Festival, CineDoc Volos, the Municipality of Volos, "Simeio" Cultural Space in Rethymno, the Cyclades Preservation Fund (CPF), and Thalassa Foundation. The screenings aim to encourage dialogue and inspire collective actions around themes such as the environment, gender equality, inclusivity, education, history, etc.
Additionally, it collaborates regularly with cultural institutions, universities, agencies, and organizations (e.g., the Gennadius Library, Harokopio University, SAE Athens, European University Cyprus, Megaron Music Hall, Piraeus Bank Cultural Foundation, etc.) and participates in conferences, festivals, and cultural events, organizing special screenings (e.g., Irida Visions, The Future of Retail, Ocean Film Festival, Piraeus Port Film Festival, Athens Pride - Athens, Europride - Thessaloniki, Come as You Are Festival - Larissa, Limassol Documentary Festival – Cyprus, etc.).
CineDoc constantly expands its network through the organization of documentary screenings under the CineDoc Island initiative, both in the islands (Cyclades, Sporades, Ionian, and Dodecanese) and the rest of Greece, in collaboration with local organizations and cinema clubs. The screenings are held under the patronage and financial support of the Ministry of Culture.
For More Information: https://www.cinedoc.gr | cinedocanemon@gmail.com
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Events In Athens
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Monday, 24 February 2025 13:50
A Tribute To Charlie Parker By Gilad Atzmon Quartet
THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens’ first English-speaking theatre, presents an extraordinary tribute to the legendary Charlie Parker, performed by Gilad Atzmon Quartet. This electrifying event, takes place on Saturday 1st March at 22:30, offering an unforgettable evening of jazz that reimagines Parker’s timeless sound with a contemporary twist.
Far more than a nostalgic tribute, this performance is a celebration of Parker’s enduring legacy and the very essence of jazz itself. Charlie “Bird” Parker, together with Dizzy Gillespie, revolutionized the sound of jazz, pioneering the Bebop movement and transforming Afro-American music into high art. His influence elevated jazz beyond the ballroom, establishing it as the classical music of America.
At the helm of this tribute is Gilad Atzmon, a world-renowned saxophonist and jazz visionary. Known for his ability to channel the energy and soul of jazz’s Golden Era, he brings a fresh and dynamic approach to Parker’s music. Atzmon’s 2008 album, "In Loving Memory of America" (ENJA Records), was both a best-seller and an award-winning tribute to Parker, widely praised by music lovers and critics alike. His fresh approach captures the virtuosity, soul, and electrifying energy that made Bird’s music both groundbreaking and deeply moving.
PRESS QUOTES ON ATZMON’S PARKER TRIBUTE:
“Gilad Atzmon combines thrilling jazz musicianship with a maverick political intelligence.” – The Guardian
“One of the finest alto players around. Gilad pays his respects to Bird. It’s striking how similar Gilad’s sweet, open-throated sound is to Parker’s, but as you’d expect from the fiery philosopher-turned-Blockhead, this is no mere tribute album.” – BBC Music Magazine
“Maybe because he’s such a wild card himself, saxophonist Atzmon plays Charlie Parker with a perfect mix of bluster and vulnerability.” – The Independent
“Atzmon is surely the hardest-gigging man in British jazz... the music here is subtle, ambiguous, often beautiful – and features a saxophonist playing deep from the heart.” – The Times
INFO
Gilad Atzmon: tenor sax
Michalis Tsiftsis: electric guitar
Giorgos Pantazopoulos: bass
Sera Bellos: drums
Videos:
Ronnie Scotts’: https://www.youtube.com/live/ZN59YoOKwjo?si=98o1DcDQggpyKt4v
Documentary: https://youtu.be/mbg0YYH5wr0?si=bPrHRE7ux6JPYW1b
Credits
Poster Design: Sotiria Bramou
Social Media: Kallia Gerakianaki
P.R. & Communication: Eleftheria Sakareli
Date & Time: Saturday 1st March at 22:30
Bar Available: Beer 3€, Drinks 6-8€
THEATRE OF THE NO: Konstantinou Palaiologou 3, Athens Ι +30 6946851001
(opposite the Athens City Hall)
Website & Social Media
Published in
Events In Athens
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Wednesday, 19 February 2025 10:28
Athens Carnival 2025: A Citywide Celebration of Music, Dance, & Tradition
Athens is gearing up for another spectacular carnival season in 2025, bringing together age-old traditions, vibrant parades, and electrifying musical performances. From the grand procession in Syntagma Square to neighborhood festivities filled with laughter and dance, the Greek capital will be brimming with the spirit of Apokries. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this year's carnival promises unforgettable moments for all. Here’s a detailed look at what’s in store!
Thursday, February 20 – Tsiknopempti (Smoky Thursday)
Kickstarting the festivities, Tsiknopempti is a day dedicated to feasting, music, and merriment:
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11 AM: The streets of Athens come alive with a Traditional Apokries Parade featuring a reenactment of the Kordelatoi from Naxos. Expect a colorful display from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki.
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11:30 AM: Enjoy a Philharmonic Orchestra Musical Walk at Varvakios Market, setting the perfect carnival mood.
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12 PM: A concert by the Athens Municipality Greek Music Workshop will keep spirits high with Greek folk and laïko tunes at Varvakios Market.
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7 PM & 8:30 PM: As the night falls, Kotzia Square hosts back-to-back live concerts with KogiaMan and Gidiki, blending traditional Greek, Balkan, and Mediterranean melodies.
Saturday, February 22 – Community and Street Festivities
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11 AM: Experience the magic of a Parade of Carnival Groups winding from Kotzia Square to Monastiraki, where folk reenactments will showcase Greece’s rich cultural heritage.
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11:30 AM: The little ones can enjoy a Children’s Carnival Party in Dourgouti Park, featuring games, face painting, and balloon artistry.
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12 PM: Athens’ neighborhoods come alive with multiple Carnival Walks, including a drumming parade by Quilombo in Kypseli and a folk dance party in Mesolongiou Square.
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1 PM: Music lovers shouldn’t miss the Athens Municipality Big Band Jazz Concert on Dionysiou Areopagitou Pedestrian Street, adding a swing-infused touch to the celebrations.
Sunday, February 23 – Family-Friendly Fun and Cultural Revelry
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10 AM: Engage in the 14th Treasure Hunt in Mets, a fun and educational adventure through Athens' historical sites.
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11:30 AM – 2 PM: Zappeion transforms into a carnival wonderland with children’s entertainment, stilt walkers, and circus acts.
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12 PM: Plaka and Thissio turn into open-air theaters with traditional Apokries performances and the famous gaitanaki ribbon dance.
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6 PM: A Zakynthian Carnival Walk from the Acropolis Metro to Monastiraki celebrates the Ionian tradition with serenades and folk dances.
Tuesday, February 25 – Satirical Songs and Neighborhood Carnivals
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10 AM – 1 PM: Kypseli Municipal Market hosts a Children’s Carnival Celebration featuring music and interactive activities.
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7 PM: The OTE Cultural Centre presents an evening of satirical carnival songs and dances, highlighting Apokries’ playful and humorous side.
Thursday, February 27 – Community Carnival Parades
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10:30 AM: The neighborhoods of Attiki and Agios Panteleimonas come together for a Carnival Parade, where school groups and cultural collectives showcase their Apokries spirit.
Saturday, March 1 – A Day for the Kids
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11 AM: Across Athens, parks and squares host Children’s Carnival Celebrations, complete with mascots, games, face painting, and traditional dances.
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12 PM – 2 PM: Klafthmonos Square stages a lively outdoor performance of “Two Grooms – One Bride”, a theatrical nod to 17th-century Zakynthian carnival traditions.
Sunday, March 2 – The Grand Carnival Parade
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5 PM: The carnival season reaches its peak with the Grand Carnival Parade from Syntagma to Kotzia Square. Expect stilt walkers, dance performances, a stunning Chinese dragon, and a vibrant street party.
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7 PM: The night concludes with a Live Concert by Decibel Band in Kotzia Square, delivering an energetic fusion of music and carnival vibes.
Monday, March 3 – Clean Monday (Kathara Deftera)
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11 AM: Athens embraces the Lenten season with Koulouma at Philopappou Hill, featuring traditional kite flying and folk music.
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11:30 AM: A Philharmonic Orchestra Musical Walk ensures the carnival ends on a melodious note.
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11:30 AM: Dance and celebrate one last time with a Traditional Folk Gathering, complete with delicious Lenten treats.
Join the Celebration!
Whether you’re after dazzling parades, cultural traditions, or musical extravaganzas, Athens Carnival 2025 has something for everyone. Mark your calendar, put on your best costume, and immerse yourself in the city's most vibrant festival of the year!
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