Traditional Easter Wishes
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Easter is a wonderful time in Greece. For Greek Orthodox Christians, it is a time to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus. For others, it is a time to celebrate with family and friends, as they welcome the arrival of spring. However, the most crucial aspect is the Easter traditions. Here are 10 you should know about. After the priest says Christos Anesti or Christ is risen, everyone else starts exchanging it with their friends, colleagues, and family. The response is Alithos Anesti, or truly he is risen. This greeting marks an integral part of the Easter celebration cherished by many. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Holy Week
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The holy week begins on Palm Sunday, in preparation for the coming Easter. The tradition of the holy week involves church services and everyday commemoration of Jesus Christ. It is common to witness street events depicting the story of the death and resurrection of Jesus. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Baking Tsoureki and Dying Red Eggs
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Greeks usually prepare for the holy week starting from Thursday. This they do with the making of the delicious sweet Easter bread called Tsoureki, or they just buy it at the local market. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Easter Sunday
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In Greece, Easter Sunday is the favorite day of the year. They roast or bake a lamb in the oven and friends, families, and loved ones come together to eat, drink, talk, and merry over vegetable dishes. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Good Friday – Church Bells, Flags, Tomb Of Jesus
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Drama and spectacle is the primary event of Good Friday. There is a sober atmosphere with flags flying half-mast and church bells ringing. Soon, the sad mood will seize and be replaced by singing, dancing, and eating. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Taking The Bier Of Christ To The Sea
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The bier of Christ is a makeshift of the tomb of Jesus that is carried by a group of men across the streets. Taking the bier to the sea is a custom that still exists in the islands of Kaminia, Hydra, and Tinos. They do it to bless the water and the seamen. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Candles And Midnight Church Service
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Late Easter Saturday tradition is also something to look out for. People go to church with candles to have a midnight service, where the lights are turned off and church bell ring to represent the rise of Christ. The priest lights a candle which everyone also lights and take home. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Eating Of The Magiritsa
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The eating of the Magiritsa, a local delicacy of roasted lamb and vegetables is another Greek Easter tradition of repute. Families gather to eat and drink together through the night, until the morning. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Red-Dyed Eggs
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In commemoration of the last super, Greek celebrates Holy Thursday with boiling eggs and dying it in red. The choice of red for the dying symbolizes victory and life, also the precious blood of Jesus given for salvation. Click the next ARROW to see the next photo!
Kourabiedes – Greek Cookies
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The Kourabiedes or Greek Cookies is also a part of the Easter traditions. It is made with flour, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. It is common to see these cookies being eaten everywhere, during the Easter holidays. Greeks have a robust Easter tradition that is celebrated with family and friends. Taking part in these holiday events is something worth looking forward to.