Greece’s Best Music Festivals for this Summer: Mykonos, Ios, Rhodes, and More
Greece might be most famous as a tourist destination for its remarkable ancient historical monuments and its stunning islands, but during the summer it is also an incredible place to go for music lovers, as the country comes alive with a huge range of music festivals.
From the iconic raves of Mykonos and Ios to the incredible traditional concerts amidst the historical settings of Rhodes, Greece is an incredible music festival destination throughout the summer, with an array of events that cater to every taste.
So if you are a music lover and like the idea of dancing surrounded by ancient ruins or grooving out on one of the most breathtaking Mediterranean islands, here’s a guide to some of the best music festivals in Greece.
1. XLSIOR Festival – Mykonos
Dates: August 21-28, 2024
Genre: Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
Mykonos is one of the most famous of Greece’s islands, known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches. At the end of August, it plays host to some of the best EDM DJs the world has to offer, providing a soundtrack to endless beach parties and incredible musical performances. The festival venues are extremely varied, ranging from luxury resorts to open-air beach venues, making this a seriously popular LGBT festival for electronic dance music fans.
2. Ios Music & Art Festival – Ios
Dates: July 12-14, 2024
Genre: Mixed (rock, indie, electronic, and more)
Ios is often described as ‘the party island of the Aegean’, an all-out Spring Break-style fiesta that combines gorgeous landscapes, traditional villages, and a vivid, electrifying nightlife scene. Its annual Music and Art Festival is a fascinating blend of live music and dance performances and art exhibitions, installations, and workshops, all set against the eye-catching turquoise background of the Aegean.
3. Rhodes Sound and Light Festival – Rhodes
Dates: June 20-22, 2024
Genre: Mixed (traditional, contemporary, and electronic)
Rhodes is an island steeped in history, from classical ruins to medieval fortifications, and boasts one of the most interesting cultural festivals in Greece in the form of the Rhodes Sound and Light Festival. This spectacle uses the historic walls of the Old Town as a blank canvas and paints an astonishing narrative using light and traditional music, creating a unique audiovisual experience.
4. Reworks Festival – Thessaloniki
Dates: September 18-22, 2024
Genre: Electronic and contemporary music
Reworks Festival is one of the most highly-rated electronic music festivals in Europe, a serious destination for EDM fans from across the world. Previous lineups have included superstars such as Caribou, Adriatique, Jeff Mills, and Nina Kraviz.
5. Ejekt Festival – Athens
Dates: July 8-9, 2024
Genre: Rock, pop, and electronic
If you are looking for something a little less ravey and a little more rocky, then you might want to turn your attention to the Ejekt Festival in Athens. While there is still plenty to enjoy for EDM fans, this major event serves up a whole host of local and international rock and pop artists as well, with an eclectic lineup that is bound to please everyone. Ejekt takes place at the Plateia Nerou, a breathtakingly beautiful venue on the Athens waterfront, making it a must-visit for music lovers.
Greece’s program of summer music events is diverse and eclectic, with options for every kind of music and culture fan. Whether you want to let your hair down and rock out, dance the night away to the latest techno grooves, or enjoy art and dance performances, there is a festival for everyone. With stunning beach venues and amazing landscapes offering beautiful backdrops, a music festival in Greece is a wonderful way to spend the summer.