We will be in Athens May 5 and May 6, leaving on May 7. We just heard about the national election and were wondering if it would be safe to be there on those dates.

Having experienced many election days in Athens, i can only say that yes it is safe....
So far at approximately 9 pm, after the first exit poll results ,you could see people from the winning party celebrating in the centre ( like everywhere in Europe), but this time i don't see that happening....
The day before the elections is always very very quiet

Yes, it will be fine.

I don't know where you come from. Is safety an issue where you live around election time? If so you have my sympathy, it must be horrible.

Well that's a snarky response! I think it's a perfectly legitimate question to ask given the political upheavals in Europe - and here- these days.

We've been in Greece during some of the demonstrations. Most of it occurs in and around Parliament/Syntagma Square. I think you'll be fine if you plan not to be around those areas that day. Good luck!

Dear Weadles

The demonstrations have nothing to do with the elections.
Elections are always peaceful and quiet, people have no reason to protest on such a day.
Therefore there is nothing to worry about

Weadles, I'm sorry if you see my remark as snarky. It was an honest question as I have no idea where the OP is based and I have a hope that the democratic process is not marred by violence. This is not always the case and is a terrible thing. I too think the OP is right to ask and I hope my views have removed any concern.

If anything Athens will be quieter than usual! Many leave Athens for their family home town/village to vote from there. Out here in Messinia it gets busier as they all arrive here