**Thessaloniki Sets Guinness Record for Largest Zeibekiko Choreography**
Thessaloniki, Greece – On June 14, 2026, the city of Thessaloniki achieved a remarkable feat by breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous zeibekiko choreography. A total of 830 dancers from Greece and various countries gathered in Aristotelous Square to participate in this historic event, which also aimed to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease.
The dancers performed to the popular song “Mia Thessaloniki” by Konstantinos Argyros, showcasing their coordinated movements and enthusiasm. Participants hailed from diverse locations, including Bulgaria, Romania, France, Germany, Austria, Norway, Serbia, Poland, Turkey, Cyprus, China, and the United States. This international participation underscored the widespread appeal of the zeibekiko dance, a traditional Greek dance known for its improvisational style and expressive movements.
The previous record was held by Cyprus, which had 754 participants in a similar event. The initiative for Thessaloniki to claim the record was spearheaded by dance teacher Themis Parastatidis, who conceptualized the idea a year prior. Parastatidis noted the love for zeibekiko not only within Greece but also among people abroad. He expressed that the gathering was not just about breaking a record, but also about sending a powerful message regarding Alzheimer’s awareness.
The event was organized in collaboration with the Greek Alzheimer’s Association, which played a crucial role in promoting the cause. Parastatidis highlighted the importance of dance in the lives of individuals with Alzheimer’s, explaining that it serves as more than just physical exercise. He emphasized that dance helps improve memory and coordination, while also enhancing social interaction and mood among participants.
“Dance is not just exercise, but much more. It trains memory, as dancers have to remember the steps and have good coordination. In addition, their mood improves because dance gives them the chance to take part in something collective, to come into contact with other people, and to meet people. Dance has many positive elements,” Parastatidis stated.
Prior to the record attempt, participants had the opportunity to attend dance lessons on June 12 and 13, where they learned the official choreography and prepared for the event. The successful execution of the choreography and the large turnout were key factors in achieving the record, which was officially recognized by a representative from Guinness World Records. The representative noted that the participants in Thessaloniki executed the choreography flawlessly, adhering to the strict guidelines set forth by Guinness.
The award ceremony was marked with the iconic song “We Are the Champions” by Queen, celebrating the collective achievement of the dancers. While the Guinness World Record does not come with a monetary prize, Parastatidis expressed that the moral satisfaction of achieving such a milestone is significant. He remarked that the event demonstrated how dance can unite people and foster a sense of community.
The event not only highlighted the cultural significance of zeibekiko but also served as a platform for raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects millions worldwide. The collaboration with the Friends of the Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders further emphasized the importance of community engagement in addressing health issues.
As Thessaloniki celebrates this achievement, the city has not only solidified its place in the record books but has also reinforced the idea that dance can be a powerful tool for connection, healing, and advocacy. The success of this event may inspire future initiatives that combine cultural expression with social awareness, fostering a greater understanding of important health issues while celebrating the rich traditions of Greek dance.