This Impromptu Dance Ball In Athens Will Get Rid Of Your Monday Blues

A city drenched in history and culture, Athens is definitely more cosmopolitan than it looks. And despite the heavy economic woes the nation has been facing for years now, Athenians always seem to find ways to counteract their tragic ordeal with a little bit of hope – and dancing. Here is how you can chase the Monday blues away, one tango step at a time.

Monday night. You just got home from a long first day of the week and wonder if you should just put your PJs on, watch Netflix and chill with Sunday’s leftovers. But don’t give in to the temptation just yet. We promise you we have something to end that dreadful first day of the week madness.

Get yourself ready and head straight to Thiseio metro station. Walk down Ermou street and right after the entrance of the Kerameikos archaeological site, you will hear some lively tunes and see a bunch of people gathering around big speakers or live music. This is Milonga Dromou, the street milonga or dance party, where tango is danced and where amateur and advanced tango aficionados gather around to dance under the starry night.

There is no entrance fee or VIP list here, everyone is welcome and anyone can join the fun. No rules either, except that ladies must wait to be invited by a gentleman. And don’t fear you will have to wait hours for this to happen. At this milonga, more often than not, men are far more present than women, which is perfect if you are a beginner. All you have to do is follow their lead.

This unique street party started in around 2009 when the economic crisis was in its dire hours and people needed a way to release some stress. It started with a couple of friends and today, no less than a dozen people come together each week, although some nights, it can get as high as 50-60 participants. All are here to dance some passionate tango and have fun.

So now you know what to do to start off the week like a champion. Milonga Dromou takes place every Monday, when the weather permits, of course, from 10 pm until the wee hours of the morning.

Milonga Dromou, Thessalonikis 1, Athens, Greece

About the author

Ethel Dilouambaka

Polyglot (with a Master Degree in Translation), adventure seeker, professional shower singer and food enthusiast, Ethel enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, usually with a certain amount of eating and drinking involved. Brussels-bred and Athens-bound, she loves traveling around the world, uploading photos on her Instagram feed and daydreaming with a good book in her hands. Want to see the world through her eyes? Find her on Instagram at @heyitsetelle