The Municipality of Athens is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate World Environment Day on Thursday, June 5, with a full day of environmentally focused events, workshops, and interactive activities at the National Garden and at city parks.
This year’s program kicks off at 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 5 at the National Garden and includes tree planting, discussions, educational programs and recycling games.
One of the highlights of the day will be the participation of approximately 400 primary school students, aged five to 12, from 11 local schools that have implemented eco-friendly initiatives throughout the year. These youngsters will take part in specially designed events aimed at deepening their awareness and connection to nature.
The program includes a gardening workshop, arts and crafts using recyclable materials, storytelling sessions, nutritional tips, songs, and an outdoor art exhibition. A recycling-themed photo booth will also be available, offering participants a fun way to share messages about the importance of sustainability.
Grade school students will also have a chance to share their thoughts and ideas about the environment with Athens Mayor Haris Doukas.
Beyond the National Garden, actions have also been planned in two parks: At 8 a.m., 13 new trees will be planted at Profitis Ilias Park as part of the EU’s “Green in Cities” initiative, with school children actively participating. Later in the day at 5 p.m., eight more trees will be planted at Bei Park. And at 6 p.m., the Antonis Tritsis Amphitheater will host a practical workshop on tree pruning, open to all.
The day ends with visitors taking home a commemorative photo from the Recycling Photo Booth, a memento of their contribution and the shared responsibility of building a sustainable future.
“Athens is changing, not just because we’re planting trees and greening public spaces, but because we’re cultivating a new environmental awareness. World Environment Day is not just symbolic; it is a call to action,” said Mayor Doukas adding that sustainability is not an abstract idea but a collective responsibility.
“The Athens of tomorrow is being created today by all of us.”