Orthodox Christmas in Greece

In Greece and for the Orthodox religion, Christmas is not like the most important holiday for Catholics, but the Greek Orthodox community feels a lot about religious festivals under the liturgical aspect and in their own way, they celebrate December 25th.

In fact, in Greece the Christmas period begins on December 6 with the celebration of Saint Nicholas, the protector of the Sailors and it is said that our Santa Claus has its origins from the Saint.

Procession and festivals are organized with fireworks and large eaten as only in Greece they know how to do besides and people burn small branches around the churches dedicated to St. Nicholas.

However like us Catholics, in the Christmas holidays all Hellenic countries and cities are decorated with illuminations and classic markets where you can find a different and original idea for a gift or to taste some typical specialties of the place and the period.

The Christmas tree even if in our days has become a symbol also for the Orthodox especially for the little ones, it is not really so widespread, the Greek tradition, instead wants the boats of the fishermen or the big sailing ships to be decorated , as the islands are very close to the sea.

If you have the opportunity, spend it a Christmas in Greece, it will be a different experience but with the atmosphere that revolves around this magical period.