Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
Greece, a country known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and sun-kissed beaches, also boasts a vibrant music scene that attracts thousands of festival-goers every year. The country’s Mediterranean charm and balmy weather set the stage for mesmerizing annual music festivals that host both international and local acts, each dedicated to showcasing a diverse range of genres from rock, pop, electronica, and more.
One of Greece’s most popular music festivals is the Rockwave Festival, which takes place over a long weekend in July. Founded in 1996, this event has become a staple in the Athenian cultural calendar, drawing music lovers from all corners of the world. The festival is held at Terra Vibe, a vast park on the outskirts of Athens that provides ample space for outdoor stages and spirited audience members.
Throughout the years, Rockwave has hosted some of the biggest names in rock and heavy metal, such as Black Sabbath, Moby, Prodigy, Twisted Sister, and Bruce Dickinson. Its strong lineup and electric atmosphere make it an unmissable event for rock enthusiasts looking to soak up Greece’s warm summer nights.
Another notable music festival in Greece is Release Athens, which showcases a diverse array of genres spanning across several weeks. This event is held at various venues throughout the iconic city, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore the ancient streets while taking in performances from both emerging and established artists.
The festival’s program is carefully curated to provide a dynamic mix of world-class talent such as Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, The Black Keys, Robbie Williams, and Kylie Minogue. The combination of remarkable acts and stunning architecture beckons music fans to discover both the city’s timeless beauty and its thriving artistic scene.
Page Contents
Dance Festivals In Greece
Greece is known for its vibrant music and dance culture, with a wide range of festivals taking place throughout the year. In this section, we will focus on a popular dance festival that should be on your must-visit list when traveling to Greece.
Take Off Festival
The Take Off Festival in Athens is an annual event that combines the best of dance performances, live music, and an exciting atmosphere. The festival typically takes place during Orthodox Easter, making it a perfect opportunity to experience traditional Greek customs, family feasts, and outstanding performances.
Over the years, Take Off Festival has attracted thousands of attendees, from locals to tourists. The festival runs for several days, providing ample time to enjoy the varied dance styles showcased. Past events have featured renowned musicians and dancers from around the globe, ensuring non-stop entertainment for all.
Location: The festival is held in Athens, the vibrant capital city of Greece. Venues for the performances are often spread throughout the city, allowing visitors to explore Athens while attending the event.
Attendance: Take Off Festival typically attracts a large crowd that includes a mix of dance enthusiasts, tourists, and local Greeks. The audience’s size can vary each year depending on the lineup, but the festival consistently offers an exciting and lively atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Duration: The festival usually lasts for several days, providing ample time for attendees to enjoy the various performances and events. The extended duration allows for a comprehensive experience of Greek dance, music, and culture.
Previous Acts: Past editions of Take Off Festival have seen an incredible lineup of talented dancers and musicians. The festival showcases a mix of traditional Greek music and contemporary dance styles, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Unique Features: What sets Take Off Festival apart is its focus on celebrating the diversity of dance styles in Greece. The festival is an incredible opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Greek dance, enhanced by the exciting atmosphere created by the live performances. Additionally, the festival’s timing during Orthodox Easter allows visitors to partake in local customs and indulge in traditional Greek feasts.
So, if you’re a dance enthusiast or simply want to experience a lively, authentic Greek celebration, make sure not to miss the Take Off Festival in Athens. Your visit to Greece wouldn’t be complete without attending this spectacular event.
EDM Festivals In Greece
Supa Dupa Fly Santorini
Supa Dupa Fly Santorini is an incredible electronic music festival held in the picturesque island of Santorini, Greece. The festival usually takes place around September, making it a fantastic way to close your summer season. With an attendance of thousands of techno lovers, it’s a must-visit event for the EDM crowd.
The festival features an amazing lineup of renowned DJs and live acts, showcasing a diverse array of electronic music sub-genres, including techno, house, and drum & bass. Previous years have seen performances by top artists such as DJ Jazzy Jeff, Artful Dodger, and Emily Rawson, just to name a few.
Supa Dupa Fly Santorini spans across five days of non-stop music, providing a perfect connection between the breath-taking island scenery and the vibrant atmosphere of an EDM festival. What makes this festival so unique is its combination of lush daytime beach parties, enchanting full moon concerts at night, and exquisite boat parties.
Some highlights of the festival include:
- Daytime beach parties at various stunning locations
- Epic full moon concerts under the starry sky
- Exciting boat parties around the island
If you’re an electronic music aficionado looking for an unforgettable experience, get ready to dance your heart out at Supa Dupa Fly Santorini!
Plissken Festival
Plissken Festival is an electrifying electronic music event that takes place in Athens, Greece. Usually held around June, it’s a fantastic summer adventure for EDM enthusiasts. The festival lasts for two days and attracts audiences from all over Europe.
The Plissken Festival boasts an impressive lineup of international DJs and techno artists, as well as a platform for local talent to gain exposure. In previous editions, the festival has featured performances by acclaimed acts such as A-Trak, Simian Mobile Disco, and Ben UFO.
One aspect that sets Plissken Festival apart from other events is its commitment to environmental and social responsibility. The festival’s organizers make a continuous effort to reduce the event’s ecological footprint and promote sustainability in all aspects of the production.
Key features of Plissken Festival:
- Innovative lineup of diverse electronic music acts
- Emphasis on environmental and social responsibility
- Vibrant concert stages throughout the city
If you’re a fan of techno, EDM, or any other form of electronic music, the Plissken Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Rock Festivals In Greece
Rockwave Festival
Rockwave Festival, Greece’s top music festival, attracts fans from all over the world. The festival usually takes place during a long weekend in July at Terra Vibe park, located in Malakasa, on the outskirts of Athens. Since 1996, Rockwave Festival has been an unforgettable event for rock music lovers.
Over the years, the festival has welcomed a variety of internationally acclaimed artists, including Black Sabbath, Moby, The Cure, and The Black Keys. The diverse lineups and energetic crowds contribute to the unique atmosphere of this event. Attending the Rockwave Festival provides an opportunity to see some of the biggest names in the rock music industry live.
Here’s what makes Rockwave Festival stand out:
- Location: The breathtaking Terra Vibe park offers a scenic and spacious setting for the festival.
- Lineup: Each year, Rockwave Festival delivers an impressive lineup of rock and heavy metal legends, making it an essential stop for fans of these genres.
- Atmosphere: Fans can expect an electrifying environment, where they can sing along with their favorite bands and meet fellow rock enthusiasts.
If you’re a rock music fan, don’t miss the chance to experience the Rockwave Festival. The combination of top-notch performances and the festival’s unique atmosphere will make this event an unforgettable experience.
Ejekt Festival
The Ejekt Festival is another well-known rock event in Greece. Held annually in Athens, it attracts tens of thousands of visitors from around the world. Typically occurring in July, it offers concertgoers the chance to see a variety of rock, indie, and electronic music acts.
The festival has featured performances from many acclaimed rock artists, including the likes of Arctic Monkeys. With a diverse lineup of incredible musicians, the Ejekt Festival has established itself as an essential event for fans of multiple music genres.
What sets Ejekt Festival apart:
- Venue: The festival takes place in the bustling city of Athens, providing an exciting urban backdrop for attendees.
- Lineup: Expect to see a wide range of well-established and up-and-coming artists performing on Ejekt Festival stages.
- A blend of genres: While rock music is at the forefront, Ejekt Festival offers fans the chance to explore indie and electronic music acts as well.
To sum it up, the Ejekt Festival is an event that offers something for everyone, especially those who enjoy a lively atmosphere within the heart of an ancient city. From the diverse lineup to the fusion of genres, the Ejekt Festival is a must-attend event for music lovers who appreciate a unique and exciting experience.
Pop Festivals In Greece
Release Athens Festival
Release Athens Festival is an incredible pop music event that takes place in the mesmerizing location of Platia Nerou, Athens. This festival usually occurs annually during the summer months, attracting thousands of music lovers with its fantastic lineup and beautiful surroundings.
Over the years, Release Athens Festival has welcomed numerous internationally renowned artists, such as Iggy Pop, Robbie Williams, Parov Stelar, and Beirut. These artists, among many others, have truly rocked the stage, bringing an unforgettable experience to the festival’s attendees.
The festival typically spans several days, turning Platia Nerou into a hub of bustling excitement during that period. Its incredible atmosphere, combined with the warm weather and picturesque views of the Aegean Sea, enhances the overall experience for everyone attending the event.
What makes Release Athens Festival truly unique is its dedication to providing an eclectic mix of pop and electronic acts. This ensures that there is something for everyone, catering to diverse music tastes and preferences. In addition, the festival continues to evolve and grow, consistently delivering unforgettable entertainment.
Here are a few highlights that make Release Athens Festival a must-visit event:
- Location: Platia Nerou’s stunning sea-side setting creates a perfect backdrop for the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Lineup: With celebrated artists such as Iggy Pop, Robbie Williams, Parov Stelar, and Beirut, the festival boasts an impressive and diverse lineup.
- Duration: Release Athens Festival usually lasts for several days, providing music enthusiasts with an extended opportunity to enjoy their favorite artists and discover new ones.
- Attendance: The festival brings together thousands of pop music lovers, creating an amazing community and energy that adds to the overall experience.
Considering its fantastic lineup, breathtaking location, and undeniable energy, Release Athens Festival is a spectacular event that pop music fans should definitely plan to attend. With each year surpassing the last, this festival continues to cement itself as a must-experience event in Greece’s vibrant music scene.
Cultural Festivals In Greece
Athens Epidaurus Festival
The Athens Epidaurus Festival is one of the most important cultural events in Greece. Established in 1955, the festival takes place annually from June to August, attracting a large number of attendees from all over the world.
Most performances are held at two major historic sites: Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. The festival is an excellent occasion to experience world-class theatre, dance, and music performances in these unique and inspiring settings.
Over the years, the Athens Epidaurus Festival has hosted a wide variety of internationally acclaimed artists and ensembles. These have included legendary theater groups such as The Royal Shakespeare Company and the Berliner Ensemble, as well as renowned musicians like Luciano Pavarotti and Elton John. The festival’s ever-expanding program covers a broad range of genres, from classical to contemporary, ensuring there’s something to cater to every taste.
One of the main attractions of the Athens Epidaurus Festival is its commitment to staging ancient Greek dramas. Performances at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus are a truly unforgettable experience for the audience, as the ancient venue provides unparalleled acoustics and an immersive atmosphere.
This combination of intense performances and stunning locations creates a truly unique experience that any lover of culture and history should not miss.
Thessaloniki International Film Festival
Taking place every November in the vibrant city of Thessaloniki, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival (TIFF) is the largest and most prestigious film event in Greece. Founded in 1960, TIFF showcases a diverse selection of international and Greek films, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers to present their work to a wider audience.
With an attendance of more than 70,000 visitors each year, this 10-day festival is renowned for its rich and diverse program of screenings, masterclasses, workshops, and special events.
At the heart of the festival is the International Competition section, which focuses on the discovery of new directors from all over the world. TIFF has a long history of recognizing and promoting new talent, having given a platform to notable film directors such as Pedro Almodovar, Béla Tarr, and Michael Haneke early in their careers.
Awards for Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor, and Best Actress, among others, are presented at the festival’s Closing Ceremony.
Aside from the competitive aspect, the festival offers a wide range of sidebars, retrospectives, and tributes, highlighting various aspects of cinema from different periods and geographies. A lively industry section, TIFF’s Agora Market, attracts film professionals from around the world, fostering networking, cooperation, and co-production opportunities in the international film scene.
In conclusion, whether you are an ardent cinephile or simply interested in discovering new cinematic perspectives, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival is an unmissable event that will leave you inspired and eager to explore more of the rich world of cinema.
Art And Music Exhibitions In Greece
Greece is home to a variety of incredible art and music events that offer entertainment, cultural immersion, and unique experiences. The historic sites and picturesque landscapes form a harmonious background for these unforgettable performances. In this section, we will dive into the spectacular world of the Free Earth Festival.
Free Earth Festival
Free Earth Festival is an annual celebration of art, music, and culture held in Halkidiki, Greece. This remarkable festival typically takes place in August, attracting thousands of attendees every year who come together for a five-day-long immersive experience.
This one-of-a-kind festival showcases a diverse range of musical genres, from psychedelic trance to chill-out, techno, and more. Enthusiasts can witness top-notch performances by international artists and DJs, making it a must-attend event for fans of electronic music.
Previous years’ acts at the Free Earth Festival have included big names like Tristan, Goa Jonas, Outsiders, and Kala, drawing audiences from all over the world. The festival’s development over the years has solidified its place as one of Greece’s most sought-after music festivals.
Unique features of the festival include mesmerizing art exhibitions and installations that blend harmoniously with the music, enhancing the overall experience for festival-goers. Attendees can explore various creative projects, including impressive sculptures, imaginative paintings, and stunning light installations that contribute to the visual feast.
Visiting the Free Earth Festival allows you to embrace Greece’s historic sites, as the event is hosted at a beautiful seaside location that showcases the country’s natural beauty. The breathtaking surroundings make for an unforgettable festival backdrop, creating an enchanting environment for both art and music enthusiasts.
As a festival attendee, you can also participate in workshops that focus on yoga, dance, healing, and sustainable living, appealing to a wide array of interests. These workshops pave the way for personal development and a better understanding of various art forms and practices.
In summary, the Free Earth Festival offers a truly unique and immersive experience with its combination of stimulating art exhibitions, diverse music performances, engaging workshops, and spellbinding historic sites. Surely, anyone planning a visit to Greece should consider attending this incredible festival and revel in the enchanting world of art and music that awaits them.
