What is Christmas Holidays in Greece ??
Christmas time and Greece is filled with unique traditions and customs, some are so unique that differ from region to region…
- groups of children ring their neighbours’ doorbells and sing the kalanta (carols) but words and wishes are not the same
- delicious aromas linger in the air. Yet is it the honey & orange scented melomakarona biscuits or the deep fried honey & cinnamon diples?
- does Epiphania , “The blessing of the waters” on 6th of January, take place in the nearby river, sea or lake?
…but the atmosphere is everywhere the same, that of joy and happiness
Vasilopita
Is the New Year’s Day cake, bread or pie – either sweet or salty – with a hidden coin or trinket that gives good luck to the receiver! A piece is sliced for each member of the family by order of age, eldest to youngest, and then any friend or visitor present at the time. Slices are also cut for various symbolic people or groups, depending on local and family tradition.
Imagine an area where stone is everywhere – either as part of the scenery or by human creation – where you can barely tell one from the other! Zagori, a mountainous region of stunning natural beauty. Zagorochoria, the 46 traditional villages “behind the mountains”.
THINGS TO DO AT ZAGORI ON CHRISTMAS
In the heart of Vikos-Aoos National Park, in the heart of winter… gear up and fear not rain or cold… simply enjoy rafting in one of the clearest and cleanest rivers in Europe.
Hiking inside the world’s deepest canyon in a unforgetable daily adventure tour! The gorge, with a northwest-southeast direction, has been carved over millions of years by the Voidomatis River
This wonderful round hiking tour takes us through Vitsa, Koukouli, Kipi and Dilofo, all gorgeous traditional villages of Zagori at the Ioannina region of Greece. We will have the opportunity to see, admire and walk on the old stone bridges that interconnected the Zagori villages, for hundreds of years.
Grevena is one of the “hidden” beauties of Greece! A place with breathtaking natural landscapes, some of the most beautiful old stone bridges, a splendid National Park (Valia Calda), traditional villages and delicious cuisine, based mostly on the local mushrooms of great variety and quality. It is a fact that Grevena is the official City of Mushrooms of Greece since 2007.
Tsigarides
Tsigarides are associated with another long-time Greek tradition – the slaughter of the pig. An animal that helped so many Greeks survive the winter months. Preserved meats like Kavourma were made, sausages, salamis and of course the good cuts for feast days.Tsigarides are not something one should eat often but it is the Christmas season and there’s nothing wrong with eating the decadent, fried foods in moderation as well.
THINGS TO DO AT GREVENA ON CHRISTMAS
Venetikos is one of the longest rivers of Greece that joins the mountains of Epirus with the plains of Grevena, forming a path of exceptional beauty. This river is the longest tributary of Aliakmonas and lies entirely in the prefecture of Grevena.
Explore one of the most breathtaking locations of Northern Greece with our experienced guides. Hike the Portitsa trail and enjoy this unique scenery.
Zip line (Flying fox) over Venetikos River
Enjoy the fun of zip line (flying fox) in one magnificent landscape on Northern Greece, in one of the most beautiful rivers of the country!Venetikos, with its crystal clear water, will be under your feet while you ride the zip line from one side of the river to the other.
Meteora is one of the most popular destinations in Greece with millions of people visiting it every year! Greek Adventure provides unique activity tours for such a unique place.
Children Sing Kalanta
Kalanda has been a part of Christmas celebrations in Greece for thousands of years and goes back to Byzantine times where children would carry small boats and sing songs honoring Dionysius. The tradition of praising the head of household also began in Ancient Greece.
THINGS TO DO AT METEORA ON CHRISTMAS
Rafting the rapids of Aliakmonas river is a special experience for both fun-loving adventurers, as well as for families with children. Each boat carries up to 6 people.
This is a unique hiking experience! Meteora is a place of incredible beauty, famous all over the world for its gigantic rock pillars and monasteries that are built on the rocks’ summits. Meteora is not only one of the biggest monastic centers in Greece but a place with incredible natural scenery.
Water biking in the Plastira Lake is ideal for all ages. Enjoy a short stroll to a day trip, enjoyable and above all, safe and refreshing. The original design of the water bike gives you the chance to enjoy the ride without needing any special clothing and of course, without even getting wet.
Visit our site for more areas and activities www.greekadventure.com
