On 3 October 1926, the northern Greek city of Thessaloniki hosted the first Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF), an event that would grow to become the country’s leading exhibition institution and one of the most important trade and cultural fairs in the Balkans.
Historical background
The idea for the fair came in the aftermath of the Asia Minor Catastrophe (1922), a time when Greece was facing enormous social and economic challenges, including the settlement of hundreds of thousands of refugees. Visionary politician Nikolaos Germanos pushed for the creation of an international exhibition in Thessaloniki, seeing it as a way to stimulate trade, attract investment, and integrate the city more fully into global markets.
The first fair in 1926 was a major success. It brought together Greek and foreign exhibitors, showcased industrial and agricultural products, and gave the public access to new technologies and ideas. From the outset, it established itself not only as a commercial event but also as a cultural celebration.
From TIF to HELEXPO
For decades, the Thessaloniki International Fair grew in scale and reputation, becoming an annual tradition. In 1977, it was officially renamed HELEXPO, a modernised exhibition and congress organisation that now operates throughout Greece and abroad.
HELEXPO today is the national exhibition agency of Greece, headquartered in Thessaloniki. It organises a wide range of trade fairs, cultural events, and conferences across multiple sectors, from technology and agriculture to fashion and tourism.
What it stands for
The TIF/HELEXPO represents more than just commerce. It has always been a window into Greece’s development, offering a platform for international partnerships, cultural exchange, and public engagement. Its exhibitions have historically introduced Greeks to new technologies, from the radio and television to the internet age.
A key tradition is the annual September Thessaloniki International Fair, which continues to this day. It is not only a showcase for businesses but also a political milestone: Greek prime ministers traditionally deliver their policy speeches at the opening of the fair, outlining the government’s priorities for the coming year.
Highlights and significance today
- Annual attendance: The fair attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, including major international exhibitors.
- Political stage: It remains a central forum for political discourse in Greece.
- Cultural role: Alongside business exhibitions, the fair hosts concerts, art shows, and community events.
- International scope: Each year, a “guest country” is honoured, strengthening ties between Greece and its global partners.
Legacy
From its humble beginnings in 1926 to its present-day role as a modern exhibition hub, the Thessaloniki International Fair has mirrored Greece’s transformations. Today, under the banner of HELEXPO, it continues to be a vital meeting point where commerce, politics, and culture intersect — a living institution that bridges Greece with Europe and the wider world.
Also read: ON THIS DAY: Greece’s first organised film screening (1900)
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