Athenians have officially marked the Festive Season for 2019, as the annual Christmas tree at Syntagma Square, in front of the historic Greek Parliament lit up last night.
The event has kicked off a series of celebrations that are on offer, free of charge, until January, the Mayor of Athens, Kostas Bakoyannis, said addressing the large crowd that came out to enjoy the festivities despite the rain.
The spectacular ceremony was presented by Greek actress and television host Zeta Makrypoulia and also included a performance by singer Elena Paparizou, who set the stage on fire with her music along with Athens Big Band, Idra Kayne and Ian Stratis.
The 17-meter-high natural Christmas tree arrived from Karpenissi and it will shine bright at Syntagma Square throughout the festive season.
"Tonight, the capital is lit. And we are happy because beyond Syntagma Square and the main streets of downtown Athens, which are shining with Christmas decorations, festivities are also taking place in the dozens of streets and squares of Athens that have been forgotten for many years. This Christmas is not just for the center. It is also for the neighborhoods of Athens and that is our goal. Let's get to the point of celebrating and decorating every corner of the city. Let's take a break and let ourselves enjoy the celebrations, their message and their moments, "said Mayor Bakoyannis.
"There will be events in all the neighborhoods of Athens this year so that no Athenian feels alone and everyone gets into the Christmas spirit," concluded the Mayor.