Athens Festival

About

The Athens Festival transforms ancient and modern venues across the city into magical performance spaces each summer, offering families world-class theatre, dance, music, and cultural events against the backdrop of Greece's most iconic monuments. With many productions specifically designed for young audiences and performances held in the breathtaking 2,000-year-old Odeon of Herodes Atticus beneath the Acropolis, this festival creates unforgettable cultural moments that bring history alive for children. The combination of spectacular settings, international artists, and family-friendly programming makes this one of Europe's most enchanting summer cultural experiences for kids.

What to Expect

Families can expect a diverse program spanning several weeks with performances ranging from classical Greek theatre and contemporary dance to puppet shows and concerts specifically curated for children. The main venue, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, is an open-air ancient theatre with stone seating and stunning views of the illuminated Acropolis at night, creating an atmospheric experience unlike any other. Various indoor and outdoor venues across Athens host different performances, including modern theatres and open-air spaces. The festival atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming to families, with Greek and international audiences gathering to celebrate arts and culture in a relaxed summer setting.

Highlights for Kids

• Watching a performance in the 2,000-year-old Odeon of Herodes Atticus with the floodlit Acropolis towering above creates a truly magical atmosphere that captivates children's imaginations
• Specially programmed children's theatre productions featuring puppetry, interactive performances, and storytelling that often blend Greek mythology with contemporary themes
• International circus acts, dance performances, and musical concerts that transcend language barriers and mesmerize young audiences
• The experience of sitting on ancient stone seats where audiences have gathered for millennia, making history tangible and exciting for kids
• Pre-show atmosphere exploring the Acropolis area at sunset, with street performers and the buzz of anticipation building before performances

Pro Tips for Families

1. Book tickets well in advance through the official Athens Epidaurus Festival website (greekfestival.gr), which has English language options, as popular family shows and prime seating at the Odeon sell out quickly during peak summer months.
2. Bring cushions or stadium seats for the ancient stone benches at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, as they can be uncomfortable for long performances—many locals come prepared with padding.
3. Check whether your chosen performance has English subtitles or is in English, as many productions are in Greek; music, dance, and visual performances are universally accessible regardless of language.
4. Arrive at least 45 minutes early for Odeon performances to navigate the uphill walk, pass through security, and secure good viewing positions, especially if you have children who need specific seating arrangements.

Best Time to Visit

Evening performances starting between 8:00-9:00 PM are most common and offer the magical experience of seeing shows under the stars with the illuminated Acropolis as a backdrop. For families with younger children, look for afternoon matinee performances or early-evening shows (typically starting around 7:00 PM) which are offered for select family-friendly productions. Weekday performances tend to be less crowded than weekend shows, making entry and exit easier with children. The festival runs throughout June, July, and August, with July typically offering the most diverse programming including dedicated children's performances.

Food & Drinks

The ancient venue does not allow outside food or drinks inside the theatre, and no food vendors operate within the Odeon itself, so plan to eat beforehand in the surrounding Plaka or Monastiraki neighborhoods where numerous family-friendly tavernas offer Greek favorites like souvlaki, Greek salads, and pasta. Many families enjoy pre-theatre dinner at nearby restaurants with Acropolis views, turning the evening into a complete cultural experience. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the walk up to the venue, but note that drinks must be finished before entering the theatre. For performances at other festival venues across Athens, food options vary by location, but the city's abundant cafes and restaurants are always nearby.

Parking & Access

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is located on the south slope of the Acropolis in a pedestrian zone, making it inaccessible by car—plan to use the Athens Metro (red line to Akropoli station, about a 10-minute walk) or taxis, which can drop you near Dionysiou Areopagitou pedestrian street. The approach involves an uphill walk on paved paths that are not stroller-friendly due to uneven ancient stones and steps, so baby carriers are strongly recommended for toddlers. Limited accessible seating is available for visitors with mobility challenges—contact the festival organizers in advance to arrange accommodations. For other festival venues throughout Athens, check specific locations as accessibility varies; most are served by public transportation with the metro being the most reliable option for international visitors.