Illumination of the Municipal Christmas tree
The Christmas celebrations of the Municipality of Chania got off to a spectacular and festive start in the Venetian harbour on the evening of Saturday 22nd November 2025, says a municipal press release. Aided by the good weather, hundreds of citizens of all ages, visitors to the city and many families attended the ceremony of illumination of the new Christmas tree, which this year dominates the square next to the Giali Jami in the magical setting of the Venetian harbour.

The event was accompanied musically by the Children’s and Adolescents’ Choir and the Municipal Band conducted by Nikos Perrakis. The crowd joined in the countdown as the Christmas tree was illuminated and an impressive firework display lit up the sky over Chania.

Following the illumination, the mayor of Chania Panagiotis Simandirakis conveyed the warm wishes of the municipal authority, expressing the hope that this year’s Christmas will be more brilliant than ever, filled with love and optimism. Sofia Manousaki and her group then took over, with a musical show full of energy and Christmas spirit.

The event was organised by the Municipality of Chania in collaboration with the Chania Port Authority, inaugurating a rich cycle of Christmas activities and events in the city.

Shop opening hours in the holiday period
The Chania Trade Association has announced the proposed opening hours in Chania for the holiday period from Christmas 2025 to Epiphany 2026. As is stated in the announcement, “the proposed timetable is indicative and optional. Each business can adapt its operation in accordance with its own needs and capacities, within the operational framework laid down by the state and the prevailing law.”

More pictures of the Christmas tree illumination can be found on the Municipality’s website, here: https://www.chania.gr/enimerosi/arxeioDT-2025/24112025fotodotisi.html