Syros of Markos Vamvakaris
The Rebetiko Festival That Revives the Soul of Greek Music | August 28–31, 2025
Ermoupoli, the elegant capital of the Cyclades, puts on its musical best and invites us once again on a unique journey into the heart of rebetiko. From August 28 to 31, 2025, the Rebetiko Festival “Syros of Markos Vamvakaris” will fill the city’s squares, halls, and hearts with melodies, tributes, and stories celebrating the tradition, innovation, and cultural legacy of this beloved genre.
Rebetiko: Tradition with Roots and Wings
Our folk music, along its colorful path through the decades, moves between form and freedom. Drawing influences from traditional, island, Balkan, and Latin American music, rebetiko artists often acted as bridges between worlds. Innovation, creativity, and rich themes define rebetiko’s identity, shaped by legendary artists like Manolis Chiotis, Giorgos Mitsakis, Iordanis Tsomidis, and many others whose contributions remain timeless.
What to Expect at This Year’s Festival
This year’s program focuses on the creative intersections of rebetiko with other musical genres and includes captivating tributes:
- Kostas Bezos and the band “Aspro Poulia”, who brought a humorous, fresh approach to rebetiko and light theatrical songs.
- A heartfelt tribute to Giorgos Mitsakis, a bouzouki virtuoso and one of the most important composers of Greek popular music.
- A performance by the Estoudiantina of the Cyclades, showcasing mandolins, mandolas, and guitars in the traditional estoudiantina ensemble style.
- Musical selections from the Piraeus and Asia Minor schools of rebetiko performed by renowned groups.
Exhibitions, Workshops & Visual Arts
As every year, the festival is more than just concerts. It also features:
- A folk musical instrument exhibition at the G. & E. Vatis Hall (Miaouli Square), along with a painting exhibition by Nikoleta Dioli titled “My Saints of Rebetiko – My Ladies of Rebetiko”.
- A musical workshop led by the musicians of “Aspro Poulia”, focusing on the structure of a rebetiko song—rhythm, vocals, and instrumental solos.
Concert Schedule
🗓️ Thursday, August 28
21:00 – Chrysoula Kehagioglou and her ensemble
22:10 – Eftychia Panopoulou and her ensemble
🗓️ Friday, August 29
21:00 – “Aspro Poulia”
🗓️ Saturday, August 30
21:00 – Estoudiantina of the Cyclades
22:00 – Laiki Orchestra “Christina”
🗓️ Sunday, August 31
21:00 – Tribute to Giorgos Mitsakis by Vasilis Skoutas, Dimitris Mitarakis & Haroula Tsalpara
Event Details
Admission: Free of charge
Location: Ermoupoli, Syros
Organized by: Municipality of Syros – Ermoupoli & Cycladic Development Agency (KETAN)
Support: Cyclades Chamber of Commerce
Arrival Time: It is recommended to arrive at the venue at least 15 minutes before each concert begins
More Info: The festival is recognized with the EFFE Label and listed in the European Festival Register (festivalfinder.eu)
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Syros is not only the island of Markos Vamvakaris—it’s a living laboratory of folk culture. Whether you are a rebetiko enthusiast or a traveler seeking authentic experiences, this festival offers a rare blend of music, history, culture, and Cycladic charm.
📍 Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for four days full of rhythm, emotion, and Greek musical tradition on the island that gave birth to an entire era.
