Stilts

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Christmas Factory at Technopolis (athens-technopolis.gr). For this special occasion, Santa and his trusty elves will be going all out with live shows, an amusement park, an ice rink, face-painting and storytelling sessions, stilt walkers, festive dancing and delicious treats.

Beneath the turquoise waters of Lake Ohrid, the "Pearl of the Balkans", scientists have uncovered what may be one of Europe's earliest sedentary communities, and are trying to solve the mystery of why it sheltered behind a fortress of defensive spikes.

On a small island surrounded by hundreds of wooden huts on stilts, in the middle of Lake Nokoue in southeast Benin, a giant painting is taking shape.

For the past three hours, in 41 degrees Celsius (106F) heat, French artist Saype has been busy transforming a playground in the floating village of Ganvie.

Kids aged 3 to 12 are invited to put on their Carnival costumes and join the games, creative activities and educational events that are being organized by the City of Athens at Zappeion. Highlights will include acrobats, jugglers, stilt walkers, musicians, magicians, face painting and more. Starts at 11 a.m. and admission is free.