The LGBTQI+ community in Athens on Saturday celebrated diversity and inclusion with an all-day event in the heart of the city at Syntagma Square.
Thousands of participants marched through the city center as they called for acceptance, inclusion, visibility and equality, under the slogan “a law is not enough.”
The main stage of the event opened at noon, hosting panel discussions and official greetings in the afternoon before the parade started at 7 p.m. followed by a big concert and performances at 9 p.m.
Athens stands firmly for inclusion and tolerance and this year we are even more determined to promote these ideals,” said Athens mayor Charis Doukas in his public address.
Thessaloniki hosts EuroPride 21-29 June
Next week, the local and international LGBTQI+ community will meet in Thessaloniki, northern Greece, for EuroPride 2024, Europe’s biggest Pride festival, featuring nine days of events, seminars, and parties from June 21-29.
With the festival slogan ‘Persevere, Progress, Prosper’, the organisers aim to acknowledge the challenges the LGBTQΙ+ community faces and their determination to face them, as well as celebrate the progress made with regard to LGBTQΙ+ inclusion and highlight thier vision for a bright and prosperous future.
The city of Thessaloniki was chosen for EuroPride 2024 because it can offer a positive political message throughout Europe, matched with a contemporary and rich program of events offered in a safe environment with high-quality services and unique travel experiences.
Visitors can explore the urban playground of the city in combination with nearby destinations, such as the breathtaking beaches of Chalkidiki and Mt. Olympus, the abode of the Greek mythology gods.
Nine days of events during EuroPride 2024
EuroPride 2024 events will be held in a variety of venues in the walkable city centre of Thessaloniki, the cultural space of the city port, and along the historic waterfront.
Most events are free, with some ticketed due to capacity, and they range from queer walking tours to art exhibitions, sports events, culinary experiences, cultural performances, and even interactive street games – such as Dungeons and Drag, which is drag twist of the popular game Dungeons and Dragons.
The program will also include a strong artistic element, thanks to partnerships with the Thessaloniki State Symphony Orchestra, the National Theatre of Northern Greece, and Thessaloniki International Film Festival, alongside three concert days on the main stage, featuring Greek and international singers, including popular Eurovision stars.
Taking place on the 26-28 June, the EuroPride Conference is held in cooperation with national and European institutions and will combine input by academics, activists, and decision-makers from across Europe.
The festivities will peak on the final day, June 29, with the EuroPride Parade in the traditional centre of the city and past the historic waterfront’s White Tower, which will be illuminated in rainbow colours for the occasion.