In a move signaling the end of free access to public spaces, the Central Corfu Municipal Council is anticipated to vote today on a new regulation that will introduce charges for the use of prominent municipal venues. These include the Municipal Theatre, the Ionian Parliament building, and various Old Town locations such as Boschetto and the Art Cafe Garden.
New Fees and Exemptions for Public Venues
The decision will also see the reintroduction of an entrance fee for the Municipal Art Gallery. However, the new fee structure includes several exemptions. Educational institutions, charitable organizations, and informational events will not be subject to these charges. Furthermore, local philharmonic orchestras, choirs, and cultural associations within the Central Municipality will pay a symbolic fee of 50 euros for their non-ticketed events.
The regulation, initially passed in 2018 under the mayoralty of Kostas Nikolouzos, aimed to impose a fee for the use of municipal facilities by clubs and associations. Its implementation was delayed due to significant backlash from cultural organizations and the need for amendments to legally enforce the charges. The grace period has now concluded, and the amended regulation was approved by the Municipal Committee on September 18, 2025, before being presented to the Municipal Council today, November 26, 2025.
Who Will Pay Fees at the Municipal Theatre?
The use of the Municipal Theatre for performances, concerts, and other activities will require approval from the Deputy Mayor and will incur a concession fee. This fee is intended to cover operational and maintenance costs, as well as to upgrade the services provided. The following entities will be required to pay a fee:
- Organizations and associations for concerts and performances.
- Candidates and political parties for local, regional, and national elections.
- Individuals or groups hosting art exhibitions or other events.
- Trade unions for general assemblies or elections.
Free Access to the Municipal Theatre
No concession fee will be charged to entities or individuals organizing charitable concerts, performances, or events where all proceeds from ticket sales are exclusively for philanthropic or social purposes, provided an income-expense report is submitted to the Municipality. Public educational institutions are also exempt. Additionally, no fees will apply for book presentations by authors and poets, lectures, workshops, and other public information events.
Philharmonic Orchestras and Cultural Associations
Philharmonic orchestras and choirs offering free artistic education will be exempt from fees for two rehearsals within the theatre’s operating hours. Local philharmonic orchestras, choirs, and cultural associations operating within the administrative boundaries of the Municipality will pay a symbolic fee of 50 euros for events without an entrance fee.
Municipal Theatre Fees (Main Hall)
| Period | Event Day | General Rehearsal |
|---|---|---|
| Monday-Friday | 200.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 25.00 euros/hour (+25% VAT) |
| Saturday (+20%) | 240.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 30.00 euros/hour (+24% VAT) |
| Sunday & Public Holidays (+30%) | 260.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 32.50 euros/hour (+24% VAT) |
Municipal Theatre Fees (New Stage)
| Period | Event Day | General Rehearsal |
|---|---|---|
| Monday-Friday | 50.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 10.00 euros/hour (+24% VAT) |
| Saturday (+20%) | 60.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 12.00 euros/hour (+24% VAT) |
| Sunday & Public Holidays (+30%) | 65.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 13.00 euros/hour (+24% VAT) |
Municipal Theatre Fees (Foyer)
| Period | Event Day (excl. art exhibitions) | Art Exhibition Day |
|---|---|---|
| Monday-Friday | 100.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 50.00 euros (+24% VAT) |
| Saturday (+20%) | 120.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 60.00 euros (+24% VAT) |
| Sunday (+30%) | 130.00 euros (+24% VAT) | 65.00 euros (+24% VAT) |
Ionian Parliament Building Fees
This building can host honorary events, meetings, cultural and athletic events, workshops, speeches, conferences, and exhibitions relevant to the residents of the Municipality. Fees will apply to:
- Candidates and political parties for local, regional, and national elections.
- Individuals or groups hosting art exhibitions or other events.
No fees will be charged to public educational institutions, or for book presentations, lectures, workshops, and other public information events.
| Period | Event Day |
|---|---|
| Monday-Friday | 200.00 euros (+24% VAT) |
| Saturday (+20%) | 240.00 euros (+24% VAT) |
| Sunday & Public Holidays (+30%) | 260.00 euros (+24% VAT) |
Old Town Municipal Spaces (e.g., Boschetto, Palace Garden – former Art Cafe)
These spaces can be used for cultural, athletic, and social events, as well as wedding receptions, baptisms, etc. A service fee of 500.00 euros will be charged if the Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands Municipality provides technical infrastructure, cleaning staff, or security. For wedding receptions, this fee will be an additional 3.00 euros per guest. Social events are exempt from this service fee.
Municipal Art Gallery
The Municipal Council is set to approve the reintroduction of an entrance fee for the Municipal Art Gallery, set at five (5.00) euros for all exhibition sections. Free entry will be granted to:
- Minors up to 18 years old.
- University students (academic ID holders).
- Unemployed individuals (unemployment card holders).
- Persons with disabilities (disability certificate holders), regardless of origin, and one accompanying person.
- Parents of large families (ASPE large family certificate holders).
- Educators of all levels.
- Tour guides.
Cultural Organizations and Opposition React
The proposed fees have already sparked reactions from cultural organizations in the area. Takis Metallinos, head of the
