City of Dionysia

Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Dionysia through ancient traditions and modern expressions of art and culture

View Upcoming Events Discover Our Culture

The Legacy of Dionysia

534 BCE

Dionysus' theater was founded in Athens by Thespis, marking the beginning of Greek dramatic competition. These theatrical festivals became central to the celebration of Dionysia.

480 BCE

The Great Dionysia festival began in Athens, featuring dramatic performances of tragedies and comedies. This became the most prestigious theatrical competition in the ancient world.

476 BCE

The Lenaia festival was established, a lesser Dionysian festival with comedic elements performed near the Piraeus port. These performances became an important part of Greek theatrical culture.

Upcoming Dionysia Events

Experience the spirit of Dionysia through these specially curated events celebrating art, theater, and ancient traditions.

Greek Drama Festival

Experience the ancient traditions of tragedy and comedy through performances of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.

April 12 - 25

Dionysus Theater

Theater Mask Workshop

Learn the ancient art of Greek theatrical mask creation with experienced artisans.

May 15 - 17

Artisan Studio

Springtime Dionysia Procession

Join the traditional Dionysia procession through the streets of the city to celebrate the god of wine and joy.

April 25

Main City Street

The Cultural Legacy of Dionysia

God of the Theater

Dionysus was revered as the god who brought theater to Greece. The Dionysia festivals in honor of him were the birthplace of Greek drama.