The Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation has curated a vibrant holiday program, offering creative activities for children and adults alike. From December 20 to January 5, the museum hosts an array of festive events, including the signature Christmas Camp, creative workshops for children of all ages, storytelling sessions, family-friendly tours, the Art Sparks transgenerational workshop, a bubble show, and concerts for everyone.

Adults can also enjoy interactive tours and a ceramic ornament workshop.

Children’s Activities

Christmas Camp 2024: The Dreamy World of Surrealism! (Ages 6–10)

On December 30, 31, and January 3, children will explore the magical world of surrealism, drawing inspiration from the surrealist artists featured in the museum’s permanent collection (Joan Miró, Max Ernst, and Spyros Vassiliou). Guided by their imagination, they will create their own “dream book” and imaginative landscapes.
For bookings and detailed program, click here.

Creative Workshops

  • On Tuesday, December 24, the “Transparent Worlds” workshop for children aged 6–10 invites participants to craft transparent creations with unique motifs and drawings, inspired by the Foundation’s collection.
  • On Saturdays, December 21, 28, and January 4, the “A Lantern and a Haiku!” workshop (ages 6–8) encourages children to compose their own haiku inspired by the Foundation’s temporary exhibition, while the “Secret Drawer” workshop (ages 8–12) offers hands-on experimentation with image transfers and three-dimensional textures on a printing plate.
  • On Sundays, December 22, 29, and January 5, younger children (ages 5–7) can join “What Do Our Eyes Remember?”, where they decorate flower bouquets using stencils, colorful inks, and essential oils. Meanwhile, older participants (ages 8–12) can take part in “Cézanne’s Minecraft: Notebook, Page 1,” learning about stereoscopic photography and creating a personal handmade notebook.

For detailed information and bookings, click here.

Storytelling Sessions

On December 27 and 28, the Foundation’s Library will host live storytelling sessions for children of different ages. Narrators will bring Christmas stories to life in 30-minute slots featuring books from various publishers. See the detailed program and book here.
Admission is free, but advance bookings are required. 

Concerts

  • “Inside the Museum”: The enchanting songs of Nikos Kypourgos—from “Lilipoupoli” and “The Secrets of the Garden,” among others—will be performed by the magical voices of Savina Yannatou and Doros Dimosthenous. Enjoy five unique performances in the Foundation’s Amphitheatre on December 21, 22, 28, 29, and 30.
    For tickets, click here.

  • “Jazz at the Museum”: On December 27, the father-and-son duo Dimitri & Nestor Vassilakis explores the interplay of jazz with other art forms.
    For tickets, click here.

Festive Choir Performances

photo by Valeria Isaeva

  • On December 21 at 14:00, the Athens Conservatoire Young Musicians Choir will perform carols and timeless Christmas classics at the Foundation’s reception area, by the Christmas tree.

photo by Valeria Isaeva

  • On December 30 at 11:30, the City of Athens Philharmonic Winds Orchestra will perform festive melodies at Aghios Spyridonas Square, outside the Foundation’s entrance.

Both concerts are free to attend.

Family Activities

Interactive Family Tours

Explore the stories behind the Museum’s masterpieces during interactive guided tours. Families will visit the four floors of the permanent collection, discuss the artworks, and participate in group and individual activities inspired by surrealist games and the “slow looking” approach. Tours are held in Greek on selected days.

Art Sparks Workshop

The Art Sparks transgenerational workshop on December 27 bridges generations through art. Participants aged over 60 and under 16 will create unforgettable memories while crafting their own artworks. No prior art experience is needed—just bring your holiday spirit!
For more information and bookings, click here.

Bubble Show

The “Mr. and Mrs. Bubble Show,” scheduled for December 28 at 12:30, creates an extraordinary bubble world for little visitors at Aghios Spyridonas Square. This interactive, fun-filled event, made with love, water, and soap, is free to attend.

Adult & Teen Activities

“Make Your Own Christmas Ball!” Workshop

On December 20, participants aged 15+ can create ceramic ornaments with ceramist Elpida Kourtzi. Starting with pencil sketches, they’ll add vibrant glazed colors to craft unique Christmas balls. Finished ornaments will be baked, glazed, and gift-wrapped for pickup four days after the workshop.

Interactive Guided Tour

Photo by Eftychia Vlachou

Explore the art of movement and animation through a guided tour, inspired by the Foundation’s collection. Visitors will learn animation techniques and create a “flipbook” to bring their favorite artwork to life. For more info please go here.

Mindfulness at the Museum

On December 20 and 27, experience mindfulness with art historian and instructor Lydia Petropoulou. Participants will explore Jon Kabat-Zinn’s mindfulness techniques, engaging with artworks in a conscious and present way. For details and bookings, click here.

Christmas Shopping and Treats

  • Shop: Find unique gifts inspired by the Museum’s collection, including ornaments, scented candles, 2025 calendars, and olive-leaf charms.

Photo by Natalia Tsoukala.

  • Café-Restaurant: Indulge in festive treats like hot chocolate, mulled wine, popcorn, and cotton candy throughout the season.

For all events and detailed information, visit the Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation’s Official Page.