Athens officially welcomed the holiday season this evening as Mayor Haris Doukas successfully lit the central 19-meter (62 feet) Christmas tree in Syntagma Square, transforming the heart of Athens into a dazzling winter spectacle.
At 7:30 p.m., Mayor Doukas gave the signal, instantly illuminating the towering fir—sourced from controlled forest cultivation in Chryssovitsi, Arcadia—along with an astonishing 21,000 meters (13 miles)of LED string lights across the square and surrounding decorations.
Despite the rain, crowds with umbrellas gathered in Syntagma Square to watch the Christmas tree light up.
The event began at 5:00 p.m. with classic Christmas melodies performed by the City of Athens Big Band.
At 6:00 p.m., the Philharmonic Orchestra marched from the Ermou Street fountain to the square, inviting citizens to join the main gathering.
From 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m., actor and singer Panos Mouzourakis headlined the festivities, entertaining the packed square with a special live Christmas show.
Athens’ Christmas decorations are activated
The ceremony also activated the festive lighting across central Athens. Key avenues such as Panepistimiou, Stadiou, Ermou Street, and Vassilissis Sofias Avenue were simultaneously switched on.
Special attention was paid to the Ermou Street walkway, which features lavish decorations, while Mitropoleos Square now hosts a beautiful Nativity scene.
All decorations utilize low-energy LED technology to ensure sustainability. The city also announced that starting December 15, the Omonia Square fountain will feature a spectacular water show synchronized with music.
Following the end of the holiday season, the 19-meter fir tree will not be discarded; instead, it is scheduled to be donated to the Fine Arts University for use by students in wood-based artworks.
