Best Festivals and Culture Events in Xánthi, Greece

Xánthi is a vibrant city steeped in tradition and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a range of festivals and events that celebrate its history, traditions, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in music, food, or folklore, Xánthi has something to offer throughout the year.

1. Carnival

The Carnival in Xánthi is a vibrant celebration filled with parades, traditional costumes, and lively music. Participants often dress up in colorful masks and costumes, making for an exciting sight as they march through the streets. The event culminates in a grand parade that features floats, bands, and performers.

2. Xánthi International Festival of Folklore

This festival brings together folk dance groups from all over Europe. Performances are held at various venues across the city, offering audiences a unique glimpse into different cultures and traditions through dance and music.

3. Thessaloniki Wine Week (Local Edition)

While primarily based in Thessaloniki, this event often includes Xánthi as one of its satellite locations. It features wine tastings, tours of local vineyards, and discussions with winemakers, providing an opportunity to explore the rich wine culture of the region.

4. Panagia Souliotissa Festival

Held in honor of the city’s patron saint, this festival includes religious processions, traditional dances, and food stalls offering local delicacies like kleftiko (lamb cooked in its own fat) and souvlaki.

5. Xánthi Summer Nights

This series of events takes place during the warmer months and features live music performances across different venues in the city. From jazz to rock, the programming offers something for every musical taste.

6. International Puppet Festival

Xánthi hosts one of the largest puppet festivals in Greece, where both international and local puppeteers showcase their talents through performances and workshops.

7. Ethnological Festival

This festival celebrates the ethnological traditions of Xánthi’s residents. It includes traditional games, folk dances, and music sessions that provide a deeper insight into the region's cultural heritage.

8. Christmas Market

During the holiday season, Xánthi transforms into a winter wonderland with a bustling market offering handmade crafts, festive food, and mulled wine. The event is a great way to experience the local holiday spirit.

9. International Film Festival

Xánthi hosts an annual film festival that screens international movies from various countries, followed by discussions and meet-and-greets with filmmakers.

10. Xánthi Marathon

For sports enthusiasts, the marathon offers a challenging course through the city's scenic landscapes while participants get to experience the local culture during their journey.

11. International Book Fair

This event brings together authors, publishers, and readers for a day filled with book readings, signings, and discussions on literature and writing.

12. Summer Art Exhibitions

Local galleries and cultural centers host summer exhibitions featuring works by both established artists and newcomers. These events provide an excellent opportunity to appreciate local art and support the community.

13. International Jazz Festival

Xánthi’s jazz festival attracts renowned musicians from around the world, offering a diverse program of concerts in various locations throughout the city.

14. Traditional Food Festival

This celebration of Xánthi’s culinary heritage showcases local dishes prepared by top chefs and vendors. Attendees can sample traditional foods like pastries and meats while enjoying live music.

15. International Dance Competition

A competition for dancers from around the world, this event features various dance styles and performances that highlight cultural diversity.

16. Christmas Eve Procession

The city comes alive on Christmas Eve with a procession through the streets. It is a religious ceremony followed by a festive atmosphere where families gather to exchange gifts.

17. International Theatre Festival

This festival hosts performances from various Greek and international theatre groups, ranging from traditional plays to avant-garde productions that push the boundaries of dramatic arts.

18. Xánthi Flower Festival

During spring, Xánthi celebrates its natural beauty with a festival that includes flower markets, workshops on gardening and floral arrangements, and exhibitions showcasing local florists’ work.

19. International Children’s Theatre Festival

A special event designed for families, this festival features plays tailored to children, educational workshops, and interactive activities.

20. Xánthi Night Market

This nightly market offers a mix of local crafts, foods, and drinks in an evening setting. It’s a great way to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife while supporting small businesses.

These top 20 festivals and culture events are just a taste of what Xánthi has to offer. Whether you’re interested in traditional customs or modern art, there is always something to experience and enjoy in this charming Greek city.