Major Festivals in Greece During Summer
Greece is a country that is rich in history, culture, and tradition. It is a country that has been the birthplace of many great philosophers, artists, and thinkers. Greece is also known for its vibrant festivals, which take place throughout the year. However, during the summer months, the country comes alive with a variety of festivals that celebrate everything from music and dance to food and wine. In this article, we will explore some of the major festivals in Greece during the summer months.
The Athens and Epidavros Festival
The Athens and Epidavros Festival is one of the most important cultural events in Greece. It takes place from June to August and features a wide range of performances, including theater, music, and dance. The festival takes place in various venues throughout Athens and Epidavros, including ancient theaters such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Ancient Theater of Epidavros.
One of the highlights of the Athens and Epidavros Festival is the performances at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This ancient theater, which was built in 161 AD, has been restored and is now used for performances during the festival. The theater can seat up to 5,000 people and provides a stunning backdrop for performances.
Another highlight of the festival is the performances at the Ancient Theater of Epidavros. This theater was built in the 4th century BC and is known for its incredible acoustics. The theater can seat up to 14,000 people and is used for performances of ancient Greek plays during the festival.
The Rockwave Festival
The Rockwave Festival is an annual music festival that takes place in Athens in July. The festival features a lineup of international and Greek rock bands and attracts music fans from all over the world. The festival takes place at Terra Vibe Park, which is located just outside of Athens.
The Rockwave Festival has been running since 1996 and has featured some of the biggest names in rock music, including Metallica, Iron Maiden, and Black Sabbath. The festival also features a variety of food and drink vendors, as well as camping facilities for those who want to stay overnight.
The Kalamata International Dance Festival
The Kalamata International Dance Festival is a celebration of dance that takes place in Kalamata, a city in the southern Peloponnese, in July. The festival features a variety of dance performances from around the world, including contemporary dance, ballet, and traditional Greek dance.
The festival takes place in various venues throughout Kalamata, including the Municipal Theater and the Castle Amphitheater. The festival also includes workshops and masterclasses for dancers, as well as exhibitions and events for the public.
The Wine Festival of Santorini
The Wine Festival of Santorini is a celebration of wine that takes place on the island of Santorini in August. The festival is held in the village of Megalochori and features a variety of local wines, as well as traditional Greek food and music.
The festival is a great opportunity to sample some of the best wines that Santorini has to offer. The island is known for its unique volcanic soil, which gives the wines a distinctive flavor. The festival also includes tours of local wineries and vineyards, as well as workshops and seminars on wine tasting.
The Matala Beach Festival
One of the biggest music festivals in Europe, the Matala Beach Festival in Crete offers free admission, a three-day program full of dancing, music, and activities, right next to the well-known beach with the caves, and a chance for people of all ages to unwind and have fun while escaping the stresses of daily life.
The Matala Beach Festival, which takes place every June or beginning of July in Crete, offers one-of-a-kind experiences, moments of magic and memories from the decade when "children of flowers" roamed freely beneath the Matala sky.
Conclusion
Greece is a country that is steeped in tradition and culture, and its festivals are a reflection of this. The festivals that take place during the summer months are a great way to experience the country's rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you're interested in music, dance, theater, or wine, there is something for everyone at these festivals. So why not plan a trip to Greece this summer and experience the magic of these incredible festivals for yourself?