EUROPEAN MUSIC DAY

European Music Day (EMD – Greece)

A nationwide celebration of music and civic culture coordinated by MESO since 1999 and co-created by citizens, institutions, and local partners

What It Is

European Music Day is the largest entrance-free music event series in Greece. Inspired by the French “Fête de la Musique,” MESO introduced EMD in Greece in 1999, transforming it into a national cultural celebration held every June 21.

Today, MESO coordinates a civic and institutional network of local producers, municipalities, artists, and public bodies across the country.

Why It Matters

EMD Greece has offered thousands of young and professional artists their first live opportunity. It supports music diversity, encourages youth participation, and activates public space with inclusive programming-from classical and jazz to electronic and hip-hop, often in historic venues and open-air landmarks.

MESO’s Role

From founding producers to current national coordinators, MESO manages the central communication, artistic curation, and partner support system behind EMD Greece.

It serves as the official Greek liaison to the European network (Fête Européenne de la Musique AISBL) and works with ministries, regions, embassies, brands, and civic initiatives to facilitate each year’s events.

Scale and Impact

• 25 years of activity (1999–2024)
• Over 5,000 music events produced or coordinated across Greece
• 50+ cities and islands participate annually
• Events hosted in public squares, archaeological sites, riversides, urban rooftops, and metro stations
• Collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tourism, Regions, Municipalities, and over 100 cultural partners