While less established as a holiday destination than, say, Paris and New York, Christmas is a lovely time to visit Athens. This year, the city is particularly festive because, in a determined effort to bring joy to its streets and lighten the spirits of its residents after two years of Covid-19 restrictions, and almost no celebrations last year, the City of Athens is going all out with decorations and events.

The city’s holiday program is made up of no less than 120 events, set to take place over 38 days, up until January 13th, meaning there will be several events to choose from every day. Among other happenings, performances will be made free at a number of the city’s theaters, and seven open-air cinemas (to be set up at Ermou street in Thiseio, at the Kolonos Theater, at the Municipal Market of Kypseli, at Mesologgiou Square in Pagrati, at the Ambelokipi basketball court, and at the Gravas Theater at Zappeio) will screen Christmas movies between December 17th and 30th, while scenes from a children’s play (in Greek) will be performed around town flash mob style.

Also on December 17th, Santa and his elves are moving in to no less than six little “Christmas villages,” which are being set up around the city, complete with entertainment for kids in the form of jugglers, puppeteers, magicians, and holiday-themed activities.

The city’s radio station will play seasonal tunes all around the commercial center, and its philharmonic orchestra will make pop-up appearances at several locations around town.

At Kotzia Square, the city’s largest ice rink is opening today, with free skating for all.

The city’s plan for New Year’s Eve is a secret.

You can find the complete program of events in Greek, here. For more advise on how to get into the Christmas mood in Athens, read our list of tips here.

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Edit: A previous version of this article contained information about a Christmas Eve event in Kotzia square. The “Night of the Wishes” has been cancelled as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19.