35th Nafplio Festival 2026: Full Programme July 11-18
For the 35th consecutive year, Nafplio transforms into a hub of top-tier classical music. The Nafplio Festival, one of Greece's most significant and long-running classical music institutions, hosts internationally renowned names this year at iconic locations across town.
35 Years of History
The Festival was founded in 1992 on the initiative of pianist Yannis Vakarelis, the Municipality of Nafplio, and the Formigx Concert Society. Over its 35 editions it has hosted more than 2,000 artists from 50 countries, top orchestras, and internationally renowned soloists. Yannis Vakarelis remains artistic director to this day.
The 2026 Programme: July 11-18
Saturday, July 11, Palamidi: "The Haunted," a musical by Dimitris Maramis, an Athens Concert Hall production.
Sunday, July 12, Syntagma Square: Dance ensemble of the Vasilis Papantoniou Foundation.
Monday, July 13, Palamidi: GrECHO Brass Ensemble, in collaboration with the Greek National Opera.
Tuesday, July 14, Church of Saint Nicholas: The legendary **musicAeterna byzantina**, founded by Teodor Currentzis, performing a millennium of Byzantine music.
Wednesday, July 15, Vouleftiko: Trio Concept, a rising Italian chamber ensemble.
Thursday, July 16, Vouleftiko: Stelios Mastrogiannis (violin) and Gorka Plada (piano).
Friday, July 17, Agios Georgios Square: Athens Tango Ensemble.
Saturday, July 18, Syntagma Square: Closing concert — the State Orchestra of Athens, under the auspices of the Hellenic Parliament, presents a world premiere by Leo Brouwer and Dvořák's New World Symphony.
Why It's Worth It
The Nafplio Festival isn't just a concert series — it's a chance to see top international artists inside historic monuments you already know, like Palamidi and the Vouleftiko.
Practical Information
Dates: July 11-18, 2026
Start time: 21:00 every day
Artistic Director: Yannis Vakarelis
See Also
- Palamidi
- Saint Nicholas
- Vouleftiko
FAQ
When is the 35th Nafplio Festival?
From July 11 to 18, 2026.
Who founded the Nafplio Festival?
Pianist Yannis Vakarelis, in 1992.
Who performs the Byzantine music concert?
musicAeterna byzantina, founded by Teodor Currentzis, at the Church of Saint Nicholas.
