by Katerina Kamposou

On a Saturday afternoon inside a small bakery in Syntagma, DJ decks are set up next to display cases full of croissants, the sound of techno mixes with the steam from the espresso machine, and people dance without waiting until midnight, holding coffee in their hands instead of drinks.

The so-called “bake raves” — morning parties hosted in bakeries, micro-bakeries, and brunch spots — have arrived in Athens as a new kind of entertainment that redefines when, where, and how people party. The trend began in Central Europe, from bakeries in Antwerp and Amsterdam, and went viral when a DJ set took place in a Parisian bakery. Soon enough, Athens embraced it too, turning sets with pastries and freddo coffee into something that no longer feels unusual — but instead reflects the natural evolution of a generation that doesn’t assume entertainment needs alcohol, late nights, and hangovers.

Groups have even formed to answer the demand from young people (especially Gen Z) for a more mindful way to meet, dance, and listen to music: events that start with brunch and end before night falls.
At Neropistolo, one of the bakeries on Voulis Street, these “bakery house parties” initially started almost experimentally but today have their own following. The atmosphere begins around 4 PM — coffee winds down, signature spritzes and beers take over, the DJ stands behind the croissant display, music gets louder, and the vibe transforms without losing its warmth.

Mostly attracting Gen Z and Millennial crowds who are increasingly into a different style of going out — less nightlife and alcohol, but always focused on good vibes and community — these daytime parties are becoming part of the city’s identity.

What started as an experiment in adapting a viral trend from abroad has already taken root in Athens’ daytime culture — and maybe the next party will be beside shelves of pasta or in the frozen foods aisle… and of course, people will be there to dance!