European Music Day returns for its 25th edition, from June 20 to 22, 2024, inviting audiences to a large open celebration unfolding across the entire country.
With more than 100 concerts and activities taking place in 65 different locations, the national network of European Music Day 2024 activates archaeological and cultural sites, squares, parks, public spaces and unexpected urban locations, transforming Greece into one unified musical stage.
This year’s edition expands across 34 cities and regions, bringing together more than 180 artists, music acts, choirs, symphonic and philharmonic orchestras. Together, they create a rich mosaic of sounds and experiences running throughout the country.
From singing and dancing by the waterfront of Chania to electronic music in Paros, from concerts in Xanthi to polyphonic serenades in Pyrgos, from Mediterranean and Balkan melodies in the medieval city of Rhodes to classical music at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Gizi Mansion in Santorini, and from musical evenings in the gardens of the Athens Concert Hall to rebetiko performances in Sikyon and activities at the Ancient Theatre of Chaeronea, European Music Day activates different musical genres in places of unique cultural significance.
In doing so, it opens channels of communication between the traditional and the contemporary, the classical and the popular, the local and the international.
Cities and regions participating in this year’s edition include:
Athens, Aigialeia, Agrinio, Alexandroupoli, Amaliada, Andritsaina, Ancient Olympia, Argostoli, Astakos, Chaeronea, Chania, Chios, Ioannina, Karystos, Kallithea (Attica), Kallithea (Ilia), Kato Samiko, Krestena, Krouni, Kythera, Megara, Naxos, Nea Figaleia, Xanthi, Paros, Patras, Pyrgos, Rhodes, Santorini, Sparta, Sikyon (Corinthia), Thessaloniki, Thespies and other regions.
European Music Day maintains its open and participatory character, with free entrance to all events, creating space for both established artists and emerging creative voices to present their work and connect with audiences.
Greece was among the first countries to officially adopt the institution of the Fête de la Musique as early as 1985, and continues to develop it today through a dynamic network of collaborations involving municipalities, cultural organisations and independent initiatives.