Athens, Attica, Greece – Residents and visitors in central Athens experienced temporary traffic disruptions yesterday, Sunday, December 21, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, due to the ‘Athens Santa Run 2025’ athletic event. The Hellenic Police (ELAS) implemented provisional and gradual road closures to ensure the safety of participants and the smooth running of the event.
Roads Affected by the ‘Athens Santa Run 2025’
The following streets in the Municipality of Athens were subject to temporary closures during the event:
- Piraeus Street: The section between Iera Odos and Omonia Square, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
- Athinas Street: Its entire length, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
- Ermou Street: Its entire length, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
- Ag. Asomaton Street: Its entire length, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
- Mitropoleos Street: Its entire length, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
- Karagiorgi Servias Street: Its entire length, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
- Thermopylon Street: Its entire length, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
- Kolokynthous Street: Its entire length, including adjacent streets up to the first parallel road.
These temporary measures were crucial for the safety of the runners and to manage the flow of traffic during the event.
Advice for Drivers and Public Transportation Users
ELAS urged drivers to avoid the affected road network during the specified hours to prevent additional traffic problems. Motorists were advised to follow traffic signs and the instructions of traffic police officers. While the event has concluded, this information serves as a reminder for future similar events in Athens, highlighting the importance of checking local announcements for traffic changes.
For future events, it is always recommended to:
- Plan your route in advance.
- Consider using public transportation.
- Stay informed through local news outlets and official police announcements.
The ‘Athens Santa Run 2025’ brought a festive atmosphere to the city, but also required temporary adjustments for commuters. Such events are a common occurrence in major cities, and understanding their impact on traffic is key to smooth urban mobility.
Source: https://www.skai.gr/news/greece/athens-santa-run-2025-prosorines-kykloforiakes-rythmiseis-simera-kyriaki-2112
