The International Fair of Thessaloniki is the biggest commercial fair in Greece and one of the most significant in the southeast European region. It dates since 1926 and is an integral part of the city's history during the years. Its operation was temporarily suspended during the Second World War and there were some ups and downs at the level of success during the years but in the last decades, it shows stable growth.
The fair is taking place very close to the city center of Thessaloniki next to the campus of Aristotelio University. It is an annual event happening during the first half of September, while the International Fair period transforms Thessaloniki, the second-largest Greek city into the epicenter of political and financial decisions.
The business and recreational aspect is also included in this International Fair that eats year is "dedicated" to another country, a fact that gives the locals the opportunity to taste, explore and learn habits, products, and principles of a different culture.
The so-called TIF-HELEXPO Exhibition Center that hosts the fair covers a total area of 180.000 square meters. This complex of facilities includes 17 large pavilions which correspond to 62.000 square meters of indoor exhibition areas. Parallel to that, there are numerous conference centers, parking areas, agency offices, sport, recreational facilities, museums, as well as banks.
Apart from the thousands of people who participate in the International Fair due to business and job reasons, the event attracts many politicians but also a great number of recreational guests. More specifically, the Thessaloniki Fair is related to the official announcements of the Greek prime minister for the budget and the strategy of the upcoming season. While the numerous concerts and happenings transform the city to a worth-visiting big party place.