Dimitria is the largest cultural & intellectual festival in Thessaloniki & Northern Greece. The festival was first held in 1966 on an initiative of the Hellenic Tourism Organization and it later became an institution. It is actually a revival of the Byzantine "Dimitria", a festival held in Thessaloniki every year from October 20 to the first Monday after the feast of the city's patron saint, Saint Dimitrios (October 26); the festival was considered a succession of the ancient Kaveiria. This old "Dimitria" had the form of a public feast, where commercial transactions were the main event, although it also included artistic and religious events. In the present "Dimitria", music plays a leading role, but the festival also features theatre, opera, dance, art and literary activities.

The Municipality of Thessaloniki organizes the "Dimitria" Festival since 1973. Every year, in early Autumn, the Festival marks the beginning of a series of major artistic & intellectual events held in Thessaloniki, covering all the arts & interests. This is a long standing institution that becomes the umbrella for several cultural events transcending any national, cultural or religious boundaries. Also, Dimitria is the second largest Greek festival and is a member of the European Union of International Festivals. The City Festival is launched in Thessaloniki with the municipality's support.

This year, Dimitria will take place in several city venues. The 47th opening ceremony of Dimitria Festival will held on 16 of September at 18:00 with Cambia Fest at 21:00 ''After Crying'' Concert with the Symphonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Thessaloniki at Thessaloniki's Concert Hall.