A CULTURAL & ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FOR VISITORS

Thessaloniki in August

Despite the typical summer lull, Thessaloniki remains vibrant and culturally active during August. Visitors can enjoy theater performances, open-air concerts, free full moon events, museum exhibitions and the unique atmosphere of the historic city center.

 

Cultural Events & Theater Performances

 

“Summer at the Garden Theater” (Theatro Kipou)

One of the city’s most popular cultural festivals hosts a wide range of theatrical and musical events, from June through September. The program includes:

  • Plays by the National Theatre of Northern Greece and other regional theaters
  • Concerts by well-known Greek artists
  • Family-friendly performances and children’s shows

Location: Garden Theater, Nikis Avenue
Dates: Until September 20, 2025

Merkouria Festival – Municipality of Neapoli-Sykies

An established summer theater event featuring renowned productions by public theaters across Greece.

Dates: August 21 – September 1
Location: Open-Air Municipal Theater of Neapoli

Highlighted Performances
  • “Lysistrata” by Aristophanes – Garden Theater, August 26
  • “The Suppliants” by Aeschylus – Forest Theater, August 28-29
    Featuring acclaimed performers such as Lydia Koniordou and Lena Papaligoura

 

Music Events & Concerts

Chainides – Live at the Garden Theater

The legendary Greek group blends folk, traditional and rock influences in a unique musical evening.

Date: August 27
Location: Garden Theater

Thodoris Ferris – Open-Air Concert

One of the top voices in contemporary Greek music performs live with a panoramic view of the city.

Date: August 27
Location: Forest Theater

 

Full Moon Events – Free Admission

Thessaloniki’s museums and archaeological sites host special evening events under the August full moon.

Main event: Byzantine Culture Museum – August 20, evening concert in the courtyard
Other locations: Ancient Stageira, Petralona Cave, Archaeological Museum of Pella

Nightlife & Entertainment

Live Rock at Eightball Club

Popular local bands perform rock and alternative sets in a vibrant club atmosphere.

Date: August 1
Location: Eightball Club, 1 Pindou St., Ladadika Area

Thessaloniki Tango Festival

An international tango festival, featuring workshops, open-air milongas and nightly events.

Dates: August 27 – September 2

Special event: Tango Beach Party – Aretsou Beach, August 9

Rooftop Bars & Evening Walks

Relax with a drink and sea views at:

  • Urania Bar (Ladadika area)
  • Skyline Café-Bar (OTE Tower)

Perfect for warm summer nights in the city.

Museums & Exhibitions

Museum of Byzantine Culture

 

  • Educational programs for children
  • Temporary exhibition: “Phoenix – Agon”, running until September 13
  • Host venue for Full Moon events
MOMus – Museum of Contemporary Art

Innovative exhibitions and permanent collections of Greek and international modern artists.

Location: Inside the HELEXPO fairgrounds

Practical Tips

  • Many events offer free admission, but early arrival is recommended.
  • August is vacation month for locals as well – some businesses and venues may be closed.
  • Booking concert/theater tickets in advance via platforms such as viva.gr or me-ticket.com is advised.

 

Information & Reservations

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