With the lighting of the Christmas tree, silent fireworks, and a big concert by Nikos Portokaloglou, the festive events “Christmas in the City 2025” by the Municipality of Heraklion kick off at Eleftherias Square on November 28, 2025.

The rich festive programme, organised by the Deputy Mayor for Culture, gets the city into a holiday mood, starting from the afternoon of Friday, 28/11. At 19:30, beginning at Lions Square, the dynamic Brazilian percussion band Batala Creta will energise the heart of the city with Samba Reggae rhythms, heading to Eleftherias Square.

At 20:15, the Municipal Philharmonic Orchestra of Heraklion meets locals and visitors at the Loggia, from where it begins its musical procession, ending up at Eleftherias Square, where under the direction of conductor Deni Skandalaki, it will take us on a journey of joyful festive melodies.

At 21:00, the Mayor of Heraklion, Alexis Kalokairinos, will launch the countdown for the lighting of the Christmas tree, which this year too will take place with silent fireworks.

The evening will culminate with a concert by beloved singer-songwriter Nikos Portokaloglou. With almost forty years in the field, Portokaloglou is one of the most consistent and creative figures in Greek music. From his early steps until today, he has followed a path of rare continuity, leaving a strong imprint on the modern music scene. With meaningful lyrics, melodies that stand the test of time, and deep artistic sensitivity, he continues to inspire and accompany his audience through his songs.

Nikos Portokaloglou and his band present a programme that includes highlights from across his discography – from the years of Fatme to his latest work. Joining him on stage is Andriana Achitzanova, a young performer known for her vocal talent and stage presence.

Contributors:
Andriana Achitzanova (vocals, ney)
Marios Laz Ioannidis (bass, vocals)
Katerina Liaki (keyboards)
Sofoklis Gekas (drums)
Ilias Lampropoulos (violin, trumpet, gaida, vocals)
Alexandros Zouganelis (saxophone, flute, vocals)
Akis Paschalakis (PA sound)
Agapitos Kataxakis (stage sound)
Melina Zervaki (lighting)

The full programme of festive events, which is updated daily, can be viewed at the following link:
👉 https://www.heraklionculture.gr/xmas-in-heraklion