Athens officially launched its holiday season on Thursday, November 27, with the grand lighting of its 19-meter Christmas tree in Syntagma Square. This major public celebration marked the beginning of the city’s winter festivities, drawing crowds with a vibrant program of music, performances, and the unveiling of extensive Christmas décor.
Syntagma Square Transformed for the Holidays
The 19-meter fir tree, responsibly sourced from the Arcadia region with forestry approval, was installed in Syntagma Square last week in preparation for the event. The city’s holiday programming commenced at 5 p.m., culminating in the tree lighting at 7:30 p.m. by Mayor Haris Doukas.
Musical Performances and Festive Parade
The evening’s celebrations began with Christmas melodies performed by the City of Athens Big Band at 5 p.m. At 6 p.m., the Municipal Philharmonic Orchestra paraded from Ermou Street’s fountain to Syntagma Square, inviting the public to join the festive procession.
The highlight of the evening was a special Christmas live show by singer Panos Mouzourakis, who performed from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. His set included popular hits such as “Megalonó,” “Épatha Agápi,” “Aftí Einai i Zoí,” “Fíla Me Akóma,” and “Madame,” alongside unique holiday-themed arrangements. Mouzourakis was accompanied by a full band and a children’s choir, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The event was hosted by Krateros Katsoulis and Ntora Makrygianni and included interpretation in Greek Sign Language to ensure accessibility for all attendees.
Citywide Decorations Illuminate Athens
By the time of the Syntagma ceremony, Athens had completed its citywide transformation with holiday lights. Central avenues, including Panepistimiou, Stadiou, Ermou, and Vasilissis Sofias, were adorned with illuminated garlands, Christmas trees, and decorative displays.
The Syntagma tree itself features striking red and gold ornaments, illuminated plexiglass decorations, and 3,000 meters of lights. The square is further enhanced by 21,000 meters of garlands, totaling 168,000 lights. Returning elements from the previous year, such as wreaths on light poles and hanging star ornaments, once again brightened the area. An interactive photo point featuring a lighted Santa Claus figure was installed, visually connected with Ermou Street, where a glowing entrance framed by nutcracker figures also greeted visitors. Additional installations include new garlands and star decorations along pedestrian walkways and a Christmas nativity scene in the nearby Mitropoleos Square.
Sustainable Lighting and Future Attractions
Athens’ Christmas lighting utilizes low-energy LED technology throughout the city, incorporating 78,000 meters of tree garlands, over 2,000 pole-mounted decorations, more than 1,300 overhead ornaments, nearly 12,000 meters of light tubing, and dozens of large illuminated structures.
Further holiday attractions are planned, with Omonia Square’s fountain set to stage water shows synchronized to music beginning December 15, adding another highlight to the city’s seasonal program.
Source: https://www.tovima.com/society/athens-to-lightits-christmas-tree-with-citywide-festivities/
