What will this year’s Advent markets be like in Drama? Program and important information in one place

When you think of Greece, you might picture sunny beaches. But this beautiful country is a captivating destination all year round, even in December.

Where to go?

Well, you won’t want to miss the enchanting Christmas Markets, especially the one in Drama.

They’re among the top attractions during the Advent season.

Let’s explore what’s in store for you there!

Christmas in Greece?

Celebrating Christmas in a foreign country can be a fantastic experience. However, it can also be challenging if you don’t know where to begin.

If you find yourself in Greece during the holiday season, you’re in luck. Some of the country’s most well-known customs are Greek Christmas songs, Saint Basil’s cake, pomegranates, and the “kalikatzaroi” tradition.

Exploring the Christmas Markets

One of the most popular activities during Christmas in Greece is visiting the Christmas markets. These markets are held in many towns and cities across the country and offer a wide range of festive treats and gifts.

Visitors can sample traditional Greek sweets such as melomakarona and kourabiedes, as well as other Christmas treats like gingerbread and mulled wine. The markets also offer a variety of handmade crafts and gifts, including ornaments, candles, and jewelry.

Drama Advent Markets

The biggest and most festive Christmas market in Greece is called Oneiroupoli. It is held regularly from the beginning of December to the beginning of January in the city of Drama. It is mainly known to the Greeks.

On the contrary, many foreigners have never heard of the Christmas market in Drama. This is a shame because if you want to experience the real Greek Christmas, you should go here.

Oneiroupoli Christmas Markets  

Step into the enchanting world of Oneiroupoli of Drama, where for over 15 years, it has been creating smiles, sweet memories, and a fairytale atmosphere for millions of visitors! This magical place is home to fairies, elves, reindeer, goblins, snowmen, and even Santa Claus himself, all coming together to create an unforgettable Christmas experience.

When and where will it all take place?

Oneiroupoli Advent Fair Program

Once a year, the town of Drama in northeastern Greece turns into a winter wonderland where the Christmas village, Oneiroupoli, or City of Dreams, lights up. The city’s City Garden and Central Square are transformed into fairytale scenes every year, and all visitors become protagonists in the best Christmas fairy tale.

This annual attraction, first held in 2003, has been bringing joy to young and old for over twenty years. The Christmas markets in Drama last for a month every year, from 4 December, when Saint Barbara, the city’s patron saint, has a feast, until 7 January.

With a large number of different attractions, including Santa’s house, a carousel, and an ice rink, Oneiroupoli could be mistaken for an amusement park. There are also a number of stalls with a variety of refreshments and live performances waiting for visitors.

The following video will tell you what it looks like in Oneiroupili.

Greece - Drama//The Fairy Tale Village - Oneiroupoli | Ονειρούπολη (4k)

Interesting places in Drama and surroundings

Drama is a city in the east of Greece, in the province of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. In its center is a beautiful park with the springs of Saint Barbara—Agias Varvaras. Although many people associate Drama with a literary genre associated with theater, the name of the place is derived from the word Ydrama / Ύδραμα, which means abundance of water.

Dionysian Rites

If you want to experience the typical rituals of the locals, come to these parts for the Three Kings Festival. At this time, the villages around Drama come alive with festivities rooted in old Dionysian rituals, full of costumes, dancing, singing, and good food.

Fraktos Forest

How many places in the world are still completely untouched? One of them is the centuries-old Fraktos forest near the city of Drama. It was declared a natural monument in 1980 and is one of Europe’s three most important centuries-old forests and the second largest.

Fraktos Forest covers an area of approximately 10,000 acres and has been designated as “unspoiled.” It has been declared a “Preservable Natural Monument” and is an important example of the area’s uniqueness.

Kato Nevrokopi

In winter, Greece’s coldest spot is often Kato Nevrokopi, dubbed “Greek Siberia.” The climate there is perfect for growing a unique type of potato, which is delicious with soutzoukakia and spicy meatballs in sauce.

The Christmas markets in Drama offer a heartwarming experience that captures the spirit of the season in enchanting settings. The ancient streets, sparkling lights, and traditional treats create a joyful atmosphere.

If you’re seeking a holiday destination that combines winter festivities with historical allure, Drama’s Christmas markets are ready to embrace you.

Let Greece be your gateway to a Christmas filled with wonder and tradition. Come and experience the magic firsthand!