Christmas in Athens

 

Athens is a special Christmas destination, as it continually becomes more exciting and spectacular each year. Christmas in Athens showcases an elaborate list of “winter wonderlands” that young and old anticipate and enjoy. Towering Christmas trees, holiday performances, ice-skating rinks, jolly Santas, magically-lit boulevards, and ornate department store displays begin in mid-November and last through early January.
Some of the major attractions and mega Christmas productions include the City of Athens’ Christmas and New Year’s celebrations at Sintagma Square, Zappeion and Kotzia. Aside from its shopping, Golden Hall Mall in Marousi is becoming a Christmas destination with events for children. The Athens Concert Hall has a wonderful list of holiday performances, as do many of the jazz clubs and other venues throughout the city. Unique is the city’s ability to embrace its nouveau commercial Christmas status while maintaining its heritage. At Flisvos Marina Winter Wonderland, for example, thousands wait as arrives via fleet of sailboats.
Advancements in ice rink technology means that cities with warmer climates can now enjoy this centerpiece as part of their celebrations. Many municipalities throughout Athens offer Christmas events and ice skating rinks at their central squares. Holiday highlights in Athens include the tradition of offering sweets to shoppers. Walk into the most expensive boutique and enjoy traditional Greek Christmas cookies melomakarona, koulouria and kourabiedes.