Athens Rings in 2022 with Televised Concert, Fireworks Show

“This New Year marks a new beginning so let’s welcome it with optimism, hope and faith…” – Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis

New Year’s Eve 2021 saw Athens’ skyline erupt in colorful fireworks as Greece ushered in 2022 on Saturday.

The Municipality of Athens held a festive celebration concert on Lycabettus hill, against the background of the city’s bright lights and hosted by popular Greek singer Sakis Rouvas but without public attendance.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the city’s new year celebration once again was a televised event by Greek state TV channel ERT1 and digital platform ertflix.gr.

Accompanied by a 17-member orchestra including musicians and soloists, Rouvas performed favorite songs and festive melodies infused with jazz styling.

Shortly before midnight Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis took the stage with the children’s choir of the non-profit organization “Ark of the World” to welcome 2022.

“We are saying goodbye to another difficult year. Not just for us, but for the whole world… This New Year marks a new beginning so let’s welcome it with optimism, hope and faith,” Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis said.