The second day of the festival will surely remain unforgettable! It was a celebration of knowledge, experience, and empowerment, with coffee taking center stage in every form and expression.
Coffee lovers had the chance to uncover its secrets through the insights of top professionals. Champions of the craft shared their expertise, answering questions like: Does an SCA-certified barista make better coffee? Why is it important to drink specialty coffee prepared by certified professionals? What is the role of the Specialty Coffee Association and how does it reflect in our cup?
We learned about caffeine content in our favorite brews, how it affects the body, and what the ideal daily intake is. A mentoring session “by women, for women” led by IWCA Greece highlighted the empowerment of women in the coffee industry through the Coffee Pairs program.
Representatives from leading plant-based milk brands offered valuable advice on how to pair alternative milks with coffee, emphasizing balance in flavor and compatibility.
The day also featured the Semifinals and Finals of the Coffee Roasting Championship 2026, adding another highlight to the festival lineup.
Top coffee roasters from across Greece gathered to compete in a high-level contest full of technique, knowledge, and passion. It was a day rich in inspiration, learning, and meaningful conversations, proving that coffee is far more than a beverage — it’s culture, community, and evolution.
Naturally, the ever-energetic Super Host Thanasis Aleuras was there to add his theatrical flair! With his unique style, boundless energy, and humor, he seamlessly tied together the day’s events, offering moments of laughter and spontaneity. From hosting presentations to his witty interludes between sessions, Thanasis was the heartbeat of the day, making us feel like we were part of a show we never wanted to end.
Stand-up star Ira Katsouda gave us a performance to remember — full of laughter and reflection. With her sharp eye on everyday life and disarming honesty, she turned ordinary moments into biting satire and hilarious truths.
Her vibrant presence, clever observations, and directness made us laugh out loud, recognize ourselves in her stories, and think a little deeper. From social norms to quirky habits, Ira deconstructed it all with humor and sensitivity, showing that stand-up comedy can be both entertainment and a mirror to society.
Then came Maggie Charalampidou, who lit up the decks and instantly elevated the festival! With explosive music choices and irresistible stage energy, she transformed the space into a non-stop party full of rhythm, intensity, and electric vibes.
Her set was a journey through electronic sounds, ethnic influences, and dance beats, creating an experience that had the crowd moving. The visuals, lighting, and overall production felt like an international festival, with Maggie keeping the energy sky-high and the audience fully engaged.
Her performance proved she’s not just a DJ — she’s an artist with global reach, who knows how to connect and share her passion for music with every beat.
And of course, we played backgammon! The tournament, held under the auspices of the Hellenic Federation of Traditional Backgammon, brought together players of all ages and skill levels, creating an atmosphere full of strategy, excitement, and dice rolls that changed the game.
Participants gave it their all, with matches full of twists, smart moves, and intense moments. The grand prize — a handcrafted backgammon board worth €100 — was the ultimate motivation, while spectators enjoyed every round with enthusiasm.
Day 2 ended with smiles, dancing, and the promise that… the best is yet to come!
