Christmas 2024 – New Year’s 2025 in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is getting ready to celebrate Christmas with a festive village filled with wooden houses, Santa Claus, and a beautiful Christmas tree. There will be lots of fun activities for kids and live music for everyone to enjoy.

The Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce is once again setting up the traditional Christmas Village and Christmas Market in Plateia Dikastirion, above Aristotelous Square. Welcoming residents and visitors of Thessaloniki with a festive atmosphere, numerous beautiful Christmas activities and surprises await.

39 wooden houses for commercial use and dining will make up the Christmas Village of Thessaloniki, while interactive houses will be set up to offer children wonderful festive moments, with the beloved Santa Claus as the main attraction. He will be waiting to hear their wishes and take photos with them.

Live music and, of course, the decorated Christmas tree that will be lit to spread plenty of Christmas magic with its glow.

“Μαρμίτα” Αίθουσα Εκδηλώσεων 4ου ορόφου ΒΠΚ Εκδήλωση παιδικού Κουκλοθεάτρου, της ομάδας (3μελής) “Μαρμίτα”,

Ε’ Δημοτική Κοινότητα Δήμου Θεσσαλονίκης,

Φωταγώγηση του χριστουγεννιάτικου δένδρου στη Βίλα Μορτνώχ

Ο ΜΙΚΡΟΣ ΠΡΙΓΚΙΠΑΣ

Ο ΜΙΚΡΟΣ ΠΡΙΓΚΙΠΑΣ

Ο ΜΙΚΡΟΣ ΠΡΙΓΚΙΠΑΣ

Ο ΜΙΚΡΟΣ ΠΡΙΓΚΙΠΑΣ

Φεστιβάλ Μελωδίες και Ιστορίες

Στις 15, 16 και 22 Δεκεμβρίου 2024  στο Δημοτικό Θέατρο ΑΝΕΤΟΝ.
Στο πλαίσιο του Φεστιβάλ,  το κοινό θα έχει την ευκαιρία να παρακολουθήσει:
στις 15 Δεκεμβρίου  συναυλία  Τζάζ,
στις 16 Δεκεμβρίου προβολή ταινιών στο κλίμα των εορτών και
στις 22 Δεκεμβρίου αφήγηση παραμυθιών, με την μουσική υποστήριξη της Φιλαρμονικής Ορχήστρας του Δήμου Θεσσαλονίκης,  σε προεορταστικούς ρυθμούς, προκειμένου μικροί  και μεγάλοι να μπούνε με τον καλύτερο τρόπο στο γιορτινό κλίμα.

Η είσοδος θα είναι ελεύθερη για το κοινό και για τις τρείς ημέρες

Ο ΜΙΚΡΟΣ ΠΡΙΓΚΙΠΑΣ

Ο ΜΙΚΡΟΣ ΠΡΙΓΚΙΠΑΣ

Φεστιβάλ Μελωδίες και Ιστορίες

Στις 15, 16 και 22 Δεκεμβρίου 2024  στο Δημοτικό Θέατρο ΑΝΕΤΟΝ.
Στο πλαίσιο του Φεστιβάλ,  το κοινό θα έχει την ευκαιρία να παρακολουθήσει:
στις 15 Δεκεμβρίου  συναυλία  Τζάζ,
στις 16 Δεκεμβρίου προβολή ταινιών στο κλίμα των εορτών και
στις 22 Δεκεμβρίου αφήγηση παραμυθιών, με την μουσική υποστήριξη της Φιλαρμονικής Ορχήστρας του Δήμου Θεσσαλονίκης,  σε προεορταστικούς ρυθμούς, προκειμένου μικροί  και μεγάλοι να μπούνε με τον καλύτερο τρόπο στο γιορτινό κλίμα.

Η είσοδος θα είναι ελεύθερη για το κοινό και για τις τρείς ημέρες

Θεατρική παράσταση “Ελένη” του Ευριπίδη

Αίθουσα Εκδηλώσεων 4ου ορόφου ΒΠΚ

Θεατρική παραστάση της θεατρικής ομάδας «Μικρός Βορράς» για παιδιά και έφηβους, μαθητές σχολείων, στοχεύοντας στην απόκτηση από τη νέα γενιά ενός ουσιαστικότερου αξιακού συστήματος, στην υποστήριξη του έργου της εκπαιδευτικής κοινότητας και στην εξοικείωσή τους με τους χώρου πολιτισμού της γειτονιάς-περιοχής τους. Θα συμμετέχει το Αρσάκειο Γυμνάσιο (78 παιδιά).

Συνδιοργάνωση ΒΠΚ και Μικρού Βορρά  με την υποστήριξη του Υπουργείου Πολιτισμού.

Με ειδικές τιμές εισιτηρίου

Στις 9/12/2024 και 19/12

ΓΙΩΡΓΟΣ ΠΕΡΡΗΣ: THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!

The traditional Christmas concert of the State Orchestra of Thessaloniki (K.O.Θ.) for the Hellenic Association of Cancer Patients, features a series of renowned melodies from various corners of Europe, all centered around the theme of Hope.

This year’s program includes:

• Ravel’s Bolero: A beloved piece that has remained one of the most recognizable and popular musical compositions, despite its simple crescendo structure.
• Saint-Saëns’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso: A romantic composition with rich references to Spanish folklore, written for his friend, the legendary violinist Pablo de Sarasate.
• Smetana’s Moldau: A symphonic poem that transports us to the beautiful Czech landscapes, painted by the composer as the majestic river flows through the country.
• Ravel’s La Valse: This piece captures the atmosphere of an era dominated by the waltz in Viennese salons, while also hinting at the looming shadow of the “Great War” and daring to use the music of the enemy itself.
• Sibelius’ Finlandia: This melodic Christmas journey concludes in the north, specifically in Finland, which the national composer honors with his symphonic poem of the same name.

The concert program includes works by:

• Maurice Ravel (1875-1937): Bolero, Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso in A minor, Op. 28
• Bedřich Smetana (1824-1884): The Moldau
• Maurice Ravel (1875-1937): La Valse
• Jean Sibelius (1865-1957): Finlandia, Op. 26

Featuring:

• Violin: Simos Papas
• Conductor: Nayden Todorov
• Thessaloniki Mixed Choir
• Choir Director: Mary Konstantinidou

This concert will support the work and goals of the Hellenic Association of Cancer Patients.

Note: The concert offers a musical journey through various European landscapes, using renowned compositions that convey a sense of hope. The program is a mix of familiar and lesser-known pieces, each with its unique story and emotional impact. The choice of composers and pieces reflects a desire to present a diverse and engaging musical experience.

Φεστιβάλ Μελωδίες και Ιστορίες

Στις 15, 16 και 22 Δεκεμβρίου 2024  στο Δημοτικό Θέατρο ΑΝΕΤΟΝ.
Στο πλαίσιο του Φεστιβάλ,  το κοινό θα έχει την ευκαιρία να παρακολουθήσει:
στις 15 Δεκεμβρίου  συναυλία  Τζάζ,
στις 16 Δεκεμβρίου προβολή ταινιών στο κλίμα των εορτών και
στις 22 Δεκεμβρίου αφήγηση παραμυθιών, με την μουσική υποστήριξη της Φιλαρμονικής Ορχήστρας του Δήμου Θεσσαλονίκης,  σε προεορταστικούς ρυθμούς, προκειμένου μικροί  και μεγάλοι να μπούνε με τον καλύτερο τρόπο στο γιορτινό κλίμα.

Η είσοδος θα είναι ελεύθερη για το κοινό και για τις τρείς ημέρες

The highly anticipated Christmas concert with a Viennese flair will be presented by the top musicians of the Johann Strauss Ensemble, under the direction of the renowned conductor Russell McGregor. This new concept of the Viennese Christmas concert, entitled “Vienna Magic,” is a celebration of the splendor of traditional classical music with a focus on the extraordinary creations of the Strauss family.

Johann Strauss Ensemble

Russell McGregor | Music Direction, Violin

The highly anticipated Christmas concert with a Viennese flair will be presented by the top musicians of the Johann Strauss Ensemble, under the direction of the renowned conductor Russell McGregor. This new concept of the Viennese Christmas concert, entitled “Vienna Magic,” is a celebration of the splendor of traditional classical music with a focus on the extraordinary creations of the Strauss family.

Johann Strauss Ensemble

Russell McGregor | Music Direction, Violin

The Nutcracker

P.I. Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker (1840-1893)

The Arabesque Dance Company was founded in 1967 and is the only ballet company in Bulgaria with a recognized reputation for contemporary staging, based on unconventional trends in the field of contemporary dance. The Arabesque Dance Company’s repertoire includes over 100 different artistic works, giving the opportunity to choreographers from Bulgaria and other parts of the world to present their own performances in different artistic styles. The Nutcracker by the Arabesque Dance Company, based on the famous fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann and the magical music of P.I. Tchaikovsky, is an interesting, contemporary and at the same time exciting performance that will transport the audience to the spirit of Christmas. The main message of the performance is that every person should be free to express themselves, free to choose to turn their dreams into reality and change the world around them as they wish.

Choreography: Boriana Sechanova Set Design: Boris Stoynov Costume Design: Tsvetanka Petkova-Stoynova

P.I. Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker (1840-1893)

The Arabesque Dance Company was founded in 1967 and is the only ballet company in Bulgaria with a recognized reputation for contemporary staging, based on unconventional trends in the field of contemporary dance. The Arabesque Dance Company’s repertoire includes over 100 different artistic works, giving the opportunity to choreographers from Bulgaria and other parts of the world to present their own performances in different artistic styles. The Nutcracker by the Arabesque Dance Company, based on the famous fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann and the magical music of P.I. Tchaikovsky, is an interesting, contemporary and at the same time exciting performance that will transport the audience to the spirit of Christmas. The main message of the performance is that every person should be free to express themselves, free to choose to turn their dreams into reality and change the world around them as they wish.

Choreography: Boriana Sechanova Set Design: Boris Stoynov Costume Design: Tsvetanka Petkova-Stoynova

The Nutcracker

P.I. Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker (1840-1893)

The Arabesque Dance Company was founded in 1967 and is the only ballet company in Bulgaria with a recognized reputation for contemporary staging, based on unconventional trends in the field of contemporary dance. The Arabesque Dance Company’s repertoire includes over 100 different artistic works, giving the opportunity to choreographers from Bulgaria and other parts of the world to present their own performances in different artistic styles. The Nutcracker by the Arabesque Dance Company, based on the famous fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann and the magical music of P.I. Tchaikovsky, is an interesting, contemporary and at the same time exciting performance that will transport the audience to the spirit of Christmas. The main message of the performance is that every person should be free to express themselves, free to choose to turn their dreams into reality and change the world around them as they wish.

Choreography: Boriana Sechanova Set Design: Boris Stoynov Costume Design: Tsvetanka Petkova-Stoynova

The Nutcracker

P.I. Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker (1840-1893)

The Arabesque Dance Company was founded in 1967 and is the only ballet company in Bulgaria with a recognized reputation for contemporary staging, based on unconventional trends in the field of contemporary dance. The Arabesque Dance Company’s repertoire includes over 100 different artistic works, giving the opportunity to choreographers from Bulgaria and other parts of the world to present their own performances in different artistic styles. The Nutcracker by the Arabesque Dance Company, based on the famous fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann and the magical music of P.I. Tchaikovsky, is an interesting, contemporary and at the same time exciting performance that will transport the audience to the spirit of Christmas. The main message of the performance is that every person should be free to express themselves, free to choose to turn their dreams into reality and change the world around them as they wish.

Choreography: Boriana Sechanova Set Design: Boris Stoynov Costume Design: Tsvetanka Petkova-Stoynova

Christmas 2024 – New Year’s 2025 in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is getting ready to celebrate Christmas with a festive village filled with wooden houses, Santa Claus, and a beautiful Christmas tree. There will be lots of fun activities for kids and live music for everyone to enjoy.

The Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce is once again setting up the traditional Christmas Village and Christmas Market in Plateia Dikastirion, above Aristotelous Square. Welcoming residents and visitors of Thessaloniki with a festive atmosphere, numerous beautiful Christmas activities and surprises await.

39 wooden houses for commercial use and dining will make up the Christmas Village of Thessaloniki, while interactive houses will be set up to offer children wonderful festive moments, with the beloved Santa Claus as the main attraction. He will be waiting to hear their wishes and take photos with them.

Live music and, of course, the decorated Christmas tree that will be lit to spread plenty of Christmas magic with its glow.

Magical Night

New Year’s Concert Organized by: STATE ORCHESTRA OF THESSALONIKI in collaboration with the THESSALONIKI CONCERT HALL

PROGRAM

Works by Mikis Theodorakis (1925-2021):

• Greek Carnival, ballet suite for orchestra

7 songs from the Odyssey:

• Shipwrecked (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• The Song of the Companions (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• To Calypso (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Eros, the God (orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• The Beautiful Helen (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• The Song of the Sirens (orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• Sea, Enchantress (orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• For all titles of the Odyssey, the poetry is by Kostas Kartelis.

Greek Carnival, ballet suite for orchestra

Selections from popular songs by Mikis Theodorakis: (transcribed for symphony orchestra: Antonis Sousamoglou, Lazaros Tsavdaridis)

• Magical Night (lyrics: Giannis Theodorakis, orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Of the Little North Wind (lyrics: Odysseas Elytis, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• If You Remember My Dream (lyrics: Nikos Gatsos, orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Dawn (lyrics: Kostas Tripolitsis, orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Old Roads (lyrics: Manolis Anagnostakis, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• Sleep Wrapped / A Little More (lyrics: Giorgos Seferis, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• The Vowed / Don’t Cry for the Romanity (lyrics: Yannis Ritsos, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)

In 2025, it will be 100 years since the birth of the leading Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis, and the STO could not but welcome the new year with works by this colossus of Greek music. Along with the orchestra, the preeminent interpreter of his works, Maria Farantouri, and the conductor Myron Michailidis, who served as the Director of the STO for many years, will participate. Greek Carnival is a ballet suite for orchestra that Theodorakis began writing while in exile on Ikaria. According to him, it was the reason he came into contact with our folk music for the first time. Mikis Theodorakis’ Odyssey record is a musical journey of the composer’s life, as he wrote the first song on the record at the age of 12 and the last at the age of 81. Mikis Theodorakis talks about the love, loneliness, and dead ends of the modern man, seeking his own Ithaca as a modern Odysseus. Antonis Sousamoglou and Lazaros Tsavdaridis transcribe these songs, as well as many other well-known and beloved songs of our great composer, in this New Year’s dedication on the 100th anniversary of his birth.

Magical Night

New Year’s Concert Organized by: STATE ORCHESTRA OF THESSALONIKI in collaboration with the THESSALONIKI CONCERT HALL

PROGRAM

Works by Mikis Theodorakis (1925-2021):

• Greek Carnival, ballet suite for orchestra

7 songs from the Odyssey:

• Shipwrecked (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• The Song of the Companions (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• To Calypso (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Eros, the God (orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• The Beautiful Helen (orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• The Song of the Sirens (orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• Sea, Enchantress (orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• For all titles of the Odyssey, the poetry is by Kostas Kartelis.

Greek Carnival, ballet suite for orchestra

Selections from popular songs by Mikis Theodorakis: (transcribed for symphony orchestra: Antonis Sousamoglou, Lazaros Tsavdaridis)

• Magical Night (lyrics: Giannis Theodorakis, orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Of the Little North Wind (lyrics: Odysseas Elytis, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• If You Remember My Dream (lyrics: Nikos Gatsos, orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Dawn (lyrics: Kostas Tripolitsis, orch. Antonis Sousamoglou)
• Old Roads (lyrics: Manolis Anagnostakis, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• Sleep Wrapped / A Little More (lyrics: Giorgos Seferis, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)
• The Vowed / Don’t Cry for the Romanity (lyrics: Yannis Ritsos, orch. Lazaros Tsavdaridis)

In 2025, it will be 100 years since the birth of the leading Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis, and the STO could not but welcome the new year with works by this colossus of Greek music. Along with the orchestra, the preeminent interpreter of his works, Maria Farantouri, and the conductor Myron Michailidis, who served as the Director of the STO for many years, will participate. Greek Carnival is a ballet suite for orchestra that Theodorakis began writing while in exile on Ikaria. According to him, it was the reason he came into contact with our folk music for the first time. Mikis Theodorakis’ Odyssey record is a musical journey of the composer’s life, as he wrote the first song on the record at the age of 12 and the last at the age of 81. Mikis Theodorakis talks about the love, loneliness, and dead ends of the modern man, seeking his own Ithaca as a modern Odysseus. Antonis Sousamoglou and Lazaros Tsavdaridis transcribe these songs, as well as many other well-known and beloved songs of our great composer, in this New Year’s dedication on the 100th anniversary of his birth.