Event Details
Welcome to the Athens Epidaurus Festival 2026
From 1 June to 29 August 2026, the Athens Epidaurus Festival takes place for the 71st time, making it one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious cultural festivals. The program brings theatre, opera, dance and concerts to two legendary venues: the Odeon of Herodes Atticus at the foot of the Acropolis in Athens, and the ancient theatre of Epidaurus in the Peloponnese, famous for its exceptional acoustics.
Highlights
- 71st edition of the festival under artistic director Michail Marmarinos
- "Farewell Celebrations" program at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus ahead of planned restoration works
- Piano recital by Víkingur Ólafsson (3 June)
- "Blade Runner Live" with the Avex Ensemble (4 June)
- Concert by Einstürzende Neubauten at the ancient theatre
- Ancient tragedies and comedies at the Theatre of Epidaurus through late August
- International and Greek productions at additional venues such as Peiraios 260
Program
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus presents a particularly concentrated program in June 2026 titled "Farewell Celebrations": since restoration work on the ancient venue is expected to begin later in the summer, the entire program at this stage runs from 3 to 30 June. Alongside Víkingur Ólafsson (3 June) and "Blade Runner Live" (4 June), highlights include a concert by Stavros Xarchakos (5 and 6 June), a tribute to Manos Hadjidakis (10 June), the music theatre production "Lysistrata" (12 and 13 June), and a concert by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir performing works by Arvo Pärt (15 June). The season at the ancient theatre of Epidaurus and the adjacent Little Theatre runs longer, from late June through 29 August, with the National Theatre of Greece and international ensembles presenting ancient tragedies and comedies alongside music and contemporary interpretations of classical works. Additional performances take place at venues such as Peiraios 260 in Athens.
Tickets
Tickets are available through the festival's official website and at box offices, including the main office at Syntagma Square in Athens. For the Theatre of Epidaurus, prices range from about 10 to 55 euros depending on category (VIP category 55 euros, Zone A 50 euros); for performances at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and other venues, prices vary widely by production and seating category. Since many performances sell out quickly, early booking is recommended.
Visitor Tips
- Plan travel or a guided day tour to the Theatre of Epidaurus well in advance, as it lies about two hours by car from Athens.
- Bring warm clothing for evening performances, as temperatures can drop noticeably after sunset.
- High heels are not permitted at either ancient venue for conservation reasons.
- Eating, drinking and smoking are not allowed in the audience areas of the ancient theatres.
- Buy tickets through the official festival website when possible, as popular performances often sell out.
