Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Apokries
February-March. Greek Orthodox Carnival, with roots in ancient worship of wine god Dionysus. Two weeks of late-night revelry, pranks, and meat eating, before the 40-day fast for Lent.
Athens Festival
June-September. Artistic Director since 2006, Yorgos Loukos has introduced lower ticket prices, new venues, and an adventurous lineup of international performers, including Peter Stein, Fiona Shaw, and Bob Wilson. www.greekfestival.gr
Athens Classic Marathon
Early November. Athletes retrace the 26-mile (42-kilometer) route run by a soldier in 490 B.C. to announce Athenians’ defeat of the Persians in the battle of Marathon. He died on the spot. Finish line at Panathenaic Stadium, venue of the first modern Olympics in 1896. www.athensclassicmarathon.gr
Babel Comics Festival
June. International and Greek comic artists (Philippe Druillet, Paolo Cossi) on display at Technopolis, former gasworks converted into an arts center. www.babelfestival.gr
Music Day
June 21-23. Free alfresco concerts all over town, from folk musicians to Greek pop bands to music from the city’s ethnic communities. www.musicday.gr
