Greek Holiday Calendar 2023: A Guide To The Festive Season
Greek Holiday Calendar 2023: A Guide To The Festive Season
Introduction
Greece is a country that is steeped in history and culture, and this is reflected in its various festivals and holidays throughout the year. The Greek Holiday Calendar 2023 is packed with exciting events and celebrations that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. In this article, we will explore some of the most significant events in the calendar and share our personal experiences of these festivities.
What are the Dates of the Greek Holiday Calendar 2023?
The Greek Holiday Calendar 2023 includes both national and religious holidays. The following are some of the most significant dates to look out for: 1st January – New Year’s Day 6th January – Epiphany 25th March – Greek Independence Day 26th April – Good Friday 29th April – Easter Monday 1st May – Labour Day 17th June – Pentecost 15th August – Assumption of the Virgin Mary 28th October – Ohi Day 25th December – Christmas Day 26th December – Boxing Day
The Festivals and Events in the Greek Holiday Calendar 2023
New Year’s Day
The first day of the year is celebrated with fireworks displays and parties across the country. People gather in the streets to welcome the New Year and exchange gifts with friends and family.
Epiphany
On the 6th of January, the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. The highlight of the day is the Blessing of the Waters ceremony, where a cross is thrown into the sea, and young men dive in to retrieve it.
Easter
Easter is the most significant religious holiday in Greece, and it is celebrated with great fervor. The Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday is marked with processions, church services, and traditional foods such as lamb and tsoureki (a sweet bread).
Pentecost
Pentecost is a celebration of the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. The day is marked with special church services and feasts with family and friends.
Assumption of the Virgin Mary
On the 15th of August, the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The day is marked with church services, processions, and fireworks displays.
Ohi Day
Ohi Day is celebrated on the 28th of October in commemoration of the Greek refusal to surrender to the Axis powers during World War II. The day is marked with parades and fireworks displays.
Christmas
Christmas is celebrated with church services, carol singing, and traditional foods such as melomakarona (honey cookies) and kourabiedes (almond cookies).
Q&A
What is the Blessing of the Waters?
The Blessing of the Waters is a ceremony that takes place on Epiphany Day, where a cross is thrown into the sea, and young men dive in to retrieve it. The person who retrieves the cross is said to have good luck for the year.
What is the significance of Ohi Day?
Ohi Day is significant because it commemorates the Greek refusal to surrender to the Axis powers during World War II. The word “ohi” means “no” in Greek, and it was the response of the Greek Prime Minister to an ultimatum from the Axis powers to surrender.
Conclusion
The Greek Holiday Calendar 2023 is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of Greece. From the Blessing of the Waters ceremony on Epiphany Day to the feasts and festivities of Christmas, there is something for everyone in the calendar. We hope that this guide has given you a taste of what to expect and inspired you to plan your Greek holiday around these exciting events.