Santorini Celebrates European Music Day with a Series of Events in Fira

On Saturday, June 21st, Santorini will once again take part in European Music Day with a vibrant program of musical events in the heart of Fira. The celebration is organized by the Municipality of Thira, the Cultural Committee, and the Holy Metropolis of Thira.

European Music Day was first launched in 1982 in France as a way to celebrate music on the summer solstice. By 1985, thanks to the initiative of Melina Mercouri, Athens became the first city outside France to join the celebration, as part of its role as the first European Capital of Culture. Since then, the event has grown into an annual European tradition, honoring music as a universal language of expression and culture.

In Santorini, the festivities begin at 19:00 with a musical parade featuring traditional serenades and dances. Under the musical direction of Ms. Gianna Mavrommati, dancers in traditional costumes will be accompanied by local musicians Averkios Vassalos (violin) and Nikos Vassalos (lute), creating an authentic and joyful atmosphere. The parade will start at the Archaeological Museum of Thira, in celebration of its reopening, and end in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Thira.

At 20:00, the Choir and a section of the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Thira will take over with an open musical procession through the town center, turning the streets into a living stage.

The evening concludes at 20:30 in front of the Cathedral, with a performance by the youth choir and orchestra of the Youth Office of the Holy Metropolis of Thira, presenting contemporary melodies.

This atmospheric musical walk offers residents and visitors a unique cultural experience, blending the beauty of music with the natural and architectural charm of Santorini.

Local cultural associations will also participate, contributing to the spirit of community and celebration.