Books, music and open-air culture have officially taken over central Athens as the 54th Athens Book Festival, which opened to the public on September 4, held its official inauguration Monday evening. The beloved literary gathering launched at Pedion tou Areos with a festive inauguration, marking the start of a 17-day celebration expected to draw thousands of visitors to the Greek capital through September 20. For book lovers, the footprint is massive. More than 200 cultural events are packed into this year’s schedule, featuring 210 publishing houses across 285 exhibition stands. This year’s theme takes a green turn: The entire program places a special spotlight on sustainable development and environmental issues, taking inspiration from the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Admission is free. Open daily from 6 to 10.30 pm, with extended hours on weekends. [Dimitris Peristeris/InTime News]