The Thessaloniki International Fair 2026 returns to the TIF-HELEXPO exhibition grounds from September 5 to 13, bringing together more than 1,000 exhibitors, international participation, technology, business, food, entertainment and cultural events in the heart of Thessaloniki.

This year is especially important because the fair marks 100 years since the first Thessaloniki International Fair in 1926, while the 2026 event itself is the 90th edition. The difference is explained by the years when the fair was interrupted, particularly during the Second World War and its aftermath.

The exhibition grounds are extensive, so trying to see every pavilion and every stand in a single visit would take many hours. A better approach is to choose the sections that interest you most and combine indoor pavilions with the outdoor public areas.

Japan Pavilion at Thessaloniki International Fair 2026

One of the main highlights is Japan, the Honored Country of TIF 2026, with its principal presence in Pavilion 13.

The Japanese pavilion combines contemporary technology, industry and business with tourism, design and traditional culture. Its central theme is Takumi, a concept connected with craftsmanship, precision, expertise and continual improvement.

Visitors can encounter Japanese companies and organisations alongside cultural activities that may include traditional music, calligraphy, dance, manga, anime, cosplay and food-related events.

Even for visitors who are not particularly interested in trade exhibitions, the Japan Pavilion is one of the strongest reasons to spend extra time inside the fair this year.

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What You Can See at TIF 2026

The Thessaloniki International Fair covers a very wide range of interests.

Technology, universities, research and innovation have a strong presence, particularly around Pavilion 17, where institutions and organisations present new applications, research projects, digital services and technological developments.

Other sections focus on Greek businesses, regional products, tourism, food, energy, consumer goods, public organisations and international exhibitors.

Fitness and wellness also have dedicated activities, while families can find children’s entertainment, games, performances and interactive experiences around the grounds.

The outdoor sections are an important part of the visit as well. Between the pavilions you will find temporary stands, vehicles, food areas, promotional displays and event spaces, with the OTE Tower remaining one of the most recognisable landmarks above the exhibition centre.

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TIF 2026 Tickets and Opening Hours

The fair runs from September 5 to 13, 2026.

Weekend opening hours are:

Saturday and Sunday: 10:00–22:00

Weekday opening hours are:

Monday to Friday: 16:00–22:00

The standard online single-entry ticket costs €9, while a regular ticket purchased at the box office costs €12.

Reduced tickets are available for eligible visitors, and a multi-day Full Access Pass is also offered for those planning more than one visit.

A weekend visit gives you much more time to explore the exhibition halls, while weekdays work well for visitors who mainly want to see selected pavilions and stay for the evening programme.

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How to Get to Thessaloniki International Fair

The exhibition centre is located at 154 Egnatia Street, beside the university district and within walking distance of central Thessaloniki.

The easiest Metro stop is Sintrivani, close to the north-western side of the TIF grounds.

Using the Metro is usually far more convenient than driving during the fair, especially because traffic and parking around central Thessaloniki can become difficult during major events.

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Concerts and Events at TIF 2026

TIF is not only an exhibition.

The programme includes concerts, cultural performances, business events, university presentations, children’s activities, fitness events and international cultural programmes.

The Music Events Live concerts take place at the outdoor stage near the YMCA Arch, with performances usually starting at 21:30.

Because the programme changes every day, it is worth checking the schedule before choosing when to visit.

MOMus: TIF 100 Years Future

One of the most important anniversary attractions is the special exhibition “TIF 100 Years Future” at MOMus – Museum of Contemporary Art, inside the exhibition grounds.

The exhibition runs from September 5 to November 1, 2026 and explores the development of the Thessaloniki International Fair through photographs, archival documents, historical objects and audiovisual material.

It also looks at the fair’s long connection with technology and innovation, from early radio developments to television and the transformation of TIF into one of Greece’s best-known annual events.

During the Thessaloniki International Fair, entry to the MOMus anniversary exhibition is included for visitors holding a TIF ticket.

A Century of Thessaloniki International Fair

The first Thessaloniki International Fair opened on October 3, 1926.

Since then, the event has become closely connected with the modern history of Thessaloniki, introducing generations of visitors to new products, technologies and ideas.

A century later, TIF remains part trade fair, part technology showcase, part cultural festival and part Thessaloniki tradition.

The best way to experience it is not to try to see everything, but to choose the areas that interest you most, allow several hours, and combine the major pavilions with some of the outdoor exhibitions and events.

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