In Greece, the holiday of Christmas holds a strong significance and is widely celebrated across the country. The holiday, much like in other Christian communities around the world, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Being a highly religious country, the birth of Christ holds immense significance to Greek people. The holiday season in Greece officially begins on December 6th with the feast of St Nicholas and culminates on January 6th with the celebration of Epiphany.
Christmas Day in Greece is a day of joy and celebration filled with rituals and traditions. Greeks attend the midnight mass on the eve of Christmas at their local churches, indulging in the spiritual retreat. Following the church service, families return home for the traditional Christmas meal. The main feature of this meal is 'Christopsomo', a special type of bread decorated with a cross, which holds deep religious significance and is shared by the family at the Christmas dinner.
Christmas in Greece is not merely a one-day affair but a festive season that extends for several weeks. Other than religious ceremonies, the season is marked with communal festivities, singing of carols known as 'Kalanda', and decorating of homes and streets. The exchange of gifts takes place primarily on New Year’s Day, rather than on Christmas Day. Overall, Christmas in Greece combines the spirit of religious devotion with a spirit of warmth, joy, and unity.