Sleepless in Athens

Enjoying one more summer night, right before the end of August, the SNF Dialogues met up at one of the most iconic spots of Athenian nightlife, Mavili Square. Everyone enjoyed themselves in good company, while listening to music, drinking and eating street food. 

Well-known lovers of the city center graced us with their stories and their music in an imaginary stroll through the capital’s nightlife, past and present. Konstantinos Tzoumas, actor, radio host and author, with his endless sense of humor and characteristically delightful style, described the atmosphere of Athen's nightlife a few years ago, and discussed with us the new pulse of the city, which does not cease to satisfy all tastes. Eva Theotokatou, radio host, DJ and TV presenter—born and raised in Athens—talked about the city center, where everyone returns to find themselves at the heart of the events that take place in a “city that radiates life”. Evi Sidiropoulou, radio host and DJ, born in Thessaloniki, recalls the first time she deejayed in downtown Athens in 2007, in a more carefree city during the years before the economic crisis. Kostas Leivadas, composer, lyricist and singer, told the story behind the famous song “Σαν να μην πέρασε μια μέρα” (As if not one day has passed), which was inspired years ago at the very same spot, at Mavili Square. Giannis Oikonomidis, owner of the “Canteen at Mavili Square,” took us through the history of the iconic landmark for all night owls in Athens. Lastly, journalists Stavros Dioskouridis and Panagiotis Menegos, widely known as Laternative, shared their favorite Athenian corners and experiences with us, while playing music that kept everyone in high spirits even after the end of the event.

Konstantinos Tzoumas Describes a Nightwalk in Athens

Eva Theotokatou on Athens centre

Evi Sidiropoulou on Athens night life

Kostas Leivadas on Mavili Square

Giannis Oikonomidis on the Canteen at Mavili Square

Panagiotis Menegos on Athens' Squares

In Brief

Promo Video

The SNF Dialogues are curated and moderated by Anna-Kynthia Bousdoukou.

*The opinions expressed by the SNF Dialogues participants, whether representing officially institutions and organizations or themselves, are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the views of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) or iMEdD. Speakers’ remarks are made freely, without prior guidance or intervention from the team.