Χριστούγεννα in Greece
Χριστούγεννα is a holiday in Greece.
When is Χριστούγεννα in Greece
Χριστούγεννα is celebrated on 25, December, 2023 in Greece.
About Χριστούγεννα in Greece
Χριστούγεννα (Christougena) is the Greek word for Christmas, and it is one of the most important holidays in Greece. The holiday is celebrated on December 25th, just like in many other countries around the world.
In Greece, the celebration of Χριστούγεννα begins on Christmas Eve, which is called Παραμονή των Χριστουγέννων (Paramoni ton Christougennon). On this day, families gather together to share a festive meal, which usually includes traditional dishes such as roasted lamb or pork, stuffed grape leaves, and various sweets.
After dinner, many people attend a midnight mass, called Θεία Λειτουργία των Χριστουγέννων (Theia Litourgia ton Christougennon), at their local church. This is a very important part of the holiday, as it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.
On Christmas Day, many people continue to celebrate with family and friends. Some may attend another church service, while others may exchange gifts and enjoy a day of relaxation.
In addition to the traditional celebrations, there are also many festivals and events that take place throughout Greece during the Christmas season. These may include Christmas markets, concerts, and performances of traditional Greek music and dance.
Overall, Χριστούγεννα is a time for family, friends, and celebration in Greece, and it is a beloved holiday that is cherished by many.
History of Χριστούγεννα in Greece
Χριστούγεννα, or Christmas, is a widely celebrated holiday in Greece. The history of the holiday in Greece dates back to the early years of Christianity when the religion was first introduced to the country.
The Greek Orthodox Church recognizes December 25th as the day of Christ’s birth, and the holiday is celebrated with religious services, feasting, and gift-giving. The holiday is also closely tied to the winter solstice and the ancient Greek festival of Saturnalia.
In the early years of Christianity, the holiday was not widely celebrated in Greece, as the Greek Orthodox Church did not recognize December 25th as the day of Christ’s birth. Instead, the church celebrated the Epiphany, which falls on January 6th and commemorates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus.
However, over time, the holiday became more popular in Greece, and today it is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The holiday season in Greece begins on December 6th, the feast day of Saint Nicholas, and continues through January 6th, the Epiphany.
During this time, people decorate their homes with lights, ornaments, and Christmas trees, and they exchange gifts with family and friends. Traditional holiday foods include roasted meats, sweets, and a special bread called Christopsomo, or “Christ’s bread.”
Overall, Χριστούγεννα is a beloved holiday in Greece, celebrated with both religious and secular traditions that bring families and communities together in joy and celebration.
How is Χριστούγεννα celebrated in Greece
Χριστούγεννα (Christmas) is one of the most important holidays in Greece, celebrated with religious, cultural, and family traditions. Here are some ways in which Christmas is celebrated in Greece:
-
Fasting: The Christmas season in Greece starts with a period of fasting, called Advent, which lasts for 40 days. During this time, people abstain from meat, dairy products, and sometimes even oil.
-
Decoration: Greeks decorate their homes and streets with lights, ornaments, and Christmas trees. The main Christmas decoration in Greece is a boat-shaped ornament called a karavaki, which symbolizes the journey of the Three Wise Men.
-
Caroling: Children and adults go door-to-door singing Christmas carols, called kalanda, and playing instruments like the triangle, drum, and guitar. They are often rewarded with sweets, nuts, or coins.
-
Feast: On Christmas Eve, families gather for a festive meal, which usually includes fish, vegetables, and other traditional dishes. After dinner, they attend the midnight mass, called the Christougena, to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
-
Gift-giving: On Christmas Day, children receive gifts from Santa Claus, called Agios Vasilis, who is believed to bring presents to good children. Adults also exchange gifts with their loved ones.
-
Epiphany: On January 6th, Greeks celebrate Epiphany, or Theophany, which marks the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. In many coastal towns, a priest throws a cross into the sea, and young men dive to retrieve it. The person who finds the cross is believed to have good luck for the year.
Dates
Χριστούγεννα will be celebrated in Greece on 2023-12-25 2024-12-25 2025-12-25 2026-12-25 2027-12-25 in the comming years.