Kalamata is the second largest city in the Peloponnese by population, after Patras. It is an important urban, economic and commercial center of the region, as well as the administrative capital of the Prefecture of Messinia.
During winter, the city’s nightlife is centered around the historic center, while in summer it moves closer to the seaside and to Verga, a suburb of the city built on the foothills of Mount Kalathi.
Every July, the city also hosts the Kalamata International Dance Festival, held both at the Kalamata Dance Megaron and at various other locations around the city. The festival is known for its high artistic quality and international reputation, welcoming performances and dancers from all over the world.
In recent years, Kalamata has also hosted the Kalamata Carnival every year, with carnival events taking place in different parts of the city and a grand parade of carnival floats held on the final Sunday.