Syntagma Square Lights Up for Christmas in Athens with Music, Cheer, and Holiday Spirit

Published on November 28, 2025

The festive season officially began in Athens on Thursday evening, as Syntagma Square was lit up for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Despite rainy weather, a large crowd gathered to take part in the celebration, marking the start of the city’s holiday festivities. The ceremony featured the lighting of a towering Christmas tree, which will serve as the focal point of Athens’ Christmas decorations throughout the holiday season.

Athens’ Iconic Christmas Tree and Citywide Decorations

This year’s Christmas tree was specially transported from Chrysovitsi in Arcadia, a mountainous region in southern Greece, with the necessary approvals from the forest authority. The tree is a symbol of tradition and stands as the centerpiece of the city’s annual holiday celebration. The tree, towering over the square, is surrounded by holiday lights, beautifully decorated with energy-efficient LED lighting, which illuminate not only Syntagma Square but also various neighborhoods throughout the city.

In addition to the towering tree, the festive decorations in Athens blend the city’s rich historical charm with modern aesthetics, creating a stunning visual effect. The LED lights used in the display are designed to be energy-efficient, reflecting Athens’ commitment to sustainability, even during the festive season.

A Musical Celebration with Performances from the Athens Municipal Big Band

The Christmas celebrations continued with a series of musical performances that added a joyful atmosphere to the evening. The Athens Municipal Big Band performed a selection of beloved Christmas melodies, helping to set the mood for the upcoming festive days. The musical parade, led by the Municipal Philharmonic Orchestra, added to the holiday cheer as it made its way from the Ermou Fountain to Syntagma Square, filling the streets with the sounds of holiday classics.

The evening was further enlivened by a special live performance from popular Greek singer Panos Mouzourakis, who was joined by Sofia Christoforidou. The duo entertained the crowd with a selection of Christmas hits and unique musical arrangements, ensuring the night was one of festive joy and musical celebration. The performance was complemented by the voices of the children’s choir from the 2nd and 3rd Papagou Elementary Schools, conducted by Thomas Kontogeorgis, adding a touching element to the live show.

A Season of Togetherness and Joy

The lighting ceremony, with its live music, festive atmosphere, and display of Athens’ stunning Christmas decorations, encapsulated the essence of the season unity, joy, and community spirit. The events marked the beginning of a month-long celebration in Athens, where visitors can experience the city’s vibrant holiday atmosphere through various cultural activities, performances, and events.

Throughout the Christmas period, Athens will host a wide array of holiday events, including theatre performances, Christmas concerts, and ballet shows, ensuring that the festive spirit reaches every corner of the city. The Athens Christmas market, offering an array of local crafts, seasonal treats, and gifts, is another key feature of the city’s holiday season, drawing both locals and visitors.

A Magical Destination for Holiday Travel

Athens, with its mix of historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and holiday festivities, is increasingly becoming a top destination for holiday travel. Whether visiting to experience the Christmas lights, explore the ancient Acropolis, or indulge in local Greek cuisine, the city offers something for every traveler. The Syntagma Square Christmas tree lighting is only the beginning, and visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural experiences and festive traditions throughout the season.

The city’s unique blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy makes it an ideal location to explore during the holiday season, whether for those seeking festive experiences, cultural exploration, or simply a winter escape in a beautiful city.

Conclusion

The Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Syntagma Square kicked off a month of celebrations and festive cheer in Athens, marking the official start of the city’s holiday season. With a blend of traditional charm, modern elegance, and a focus on community, Athens offers visitors an unforgettable holiday experience. For those planning to visit Athens during the festive season, be sure to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, enjoy its local food, and take in the beauty of its holiday lights.