Athens is gearing up for a vibrant two-day celebration filled with color, music and festive spirit. On Carnival Sunday, February 22, 2026, the Athens Carnival reaches its peak with a grand parade and street party in the city center. The festivities continue on Clean Monday, February 23, 2026, with the traditional “Koulouma” celebrations on Philopappos Hill. The program is curated by the City of Athens’ Organization for Culture, Sports and Youth.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas stated:
“Athens celebrates with openness, participation, joy and inclusivity. On Carnival Sunday, the city center transforms into one grand stage of celebration for all. On Clean Monday, at Philopappos Hill, we keep tradition alive with music, Lenten delicacies and kites filling the city’s sky. We invite everyone to come and celebrate together!”
Sunday, February 22, 2026 – Grand Carnival Parade in the City Center
Children and adults in costume will parade through downtown Athens in a large carnival procession organized by the City of Athens and the Athens Chamber of Professionals. Stilt walkers will accompany the parade, while the world champion Greek Cheerleading Team from Horokinisi Nafplio will impress with dynamic performances. Leading the dance will be the International Dance Council – Athens Section CID UNESCO and the Traditional Dance Association “Molyvos.” The inclusive spirit of the celebration will be highlighted by the IASIS NGO team. Meanwhile, from 5:00 p.m., the party begins at Kotzia Square, where Nikos Zoi from 95.2 Athens DeeJay will take over with a live carnival DJ set. The parade is expected to reach Kotzia Square at around 6:00 p.m., where the celebration will culminate with music, dancing and a spectacular bubble show featuring countless soap bubbles.
Monday, February 23, 2026 – Koulouma and Kite Flying on Philopappos Hill
Athens will welcome the beginning of Lent on Philopappos Hill. At 11:00 a.m., the City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra will greet visitors, followed at 11:30 a.m. by an authentic island-style celebration with Nikos Oikonomidis and Kyriaki Spanou. A wide selection of traditional Lenten treats will be offered free of charge. Special thanks to Coca-Cola Tria Epsilon for offering Amita juices and ALFA WITHOUT beer in support of Carnival Sunday, as well as to Veneti Bakeries, Enaithria Athens and VIKOS COLA for their contribution to the Clean Monday celebrations.
