ATHENS, July 3 -- Fun and Culture are key words in the Athens 2011 Special Olympics under way, as Greek hosts have added a wide variety of entertainment and educational programs to the most significant sports event they organize since the 2004 Olympic Games.

In an open area inside the Olympic Sports Complex in Athens (O.A.K.A.), tens of thousands of athletes, members of delegations and spectators are offered the opportunity to relax and have fun in Special Olympics Festivals throughout the ten-day Games.

The program constitutes of concerts, dancing groups, giant games, fun park, crafts workshops, screening, recycling park, electronic games, recreational activities, photograph and painting exhibitions, interactive puppetry, Magicians and stilt walkers and live radio broadcastings.

The festivals' program is dedicated to the seven regions participating in the Special Olympics with traditional artistic events organized by the corresponding embassies: Europe and Eurasia; Middle East and North Africa; Asia Pacific; North America; East Asia; Latin America; Africa.

A giant inflatable figure of Apollon, the sun-shaped mascot of the Games, is the centerpiece of the area.

"The Sun is the symbol of optimism, joy and glory. Its light and warmth are considered a source of life and happiness. Greece, world known for its Sun, has since ancient times worshiped the Sun as a God. Its selection as the Mascot of the Special Olympics World Summer Games ATHENS 2011, aims to convey the message of joy and optimism towards all athletes, and to welcome them in Greece with a big warm hug," according to organizers of the Games.

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