Philippi Festival 2027: Ancient Theatre near Kavala

The Philippi Festival is the major performing arts event of northern Greece, running from early July to early September each year at the ancient theatre of Philippi - a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 15 km north of Kavala. The 2027 season is expected to open in early July, following the established annual pattern. Full programme and exact dates will be confirmed at philippifestival.gr.

The ancient theatre at Philippi, originally built in the 4th century BC and expanded under Roman rule, seats approximately 2,500 spectators in its restored stone cavea. Performances take place at night against the backdrop of the floodlit ruins - among the most atmospheric theatre settings in Greece.

What’s Performed

The festival programme typically spans:

• Ancient drama - Greek tragedies and comedies performed by leading Greek theatre companies; occasional productions from international ensembles
• World music and dance - international acts that complement the ancient drama programme
• Contemporary theatre - selected modern productions from the Greek repertoire

Productions of Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes are central to the annual programme. Performances in Greek typically feature projected English supertitles for international audiences.

Getting There

The ancient theatre of Philippi lies 15 km north of Kavala city centre. By car from Kavala, follow the road toward Drama (E90/A2) - the site and theatre are well signposted. A taxi from Kavala takes around 20 minutes. There is no direct regular public bus service to the theatre for evening performances, so a hire car or taxi is the most practical option for visitors without a vehicle.

From Thessaloniki, Kavala is approximately 160 km east along the Egnatia motorway (around 2 hours). Kavala has an airport (Alexander the Great Airport) with seasonal connections to several European cities.

Combining with a Kavala Visit

Kavala itself is one of northern Greece’s most rewarding cities - the Byzantine fortress above the old town, the Ottoman-era imaret, and the harbour are all worth exploring. The combination of a Philippi performance with a night or two in Kavala and a visit to the Philippi archaeological site by day makes a strong northern Greece itinerary. See our Kavala guide for accommodation options and what to see in the city.

Exploring northern Greece more widely? Browse guided tours and day trips in northern Greece on GetYourGuide, including excursions from Thessaloniki that cover Kavala and the Philippi site.