Holidays are celebrated frequently in Greece, citizens love to gather with friends and family to enjoy the festivities. Most of Greece's holidays center around their religion, Greek Orthodox Christianity.
Easter is one of Greece's largest festivities. Just like Mardi Gras here in America, the Greeks have Apokreas. This is a carnival season that lasts for 40 days. Citizens dress up and partake in activities to celebrate. On the Saturday before Easter, an Orthodox Patriarch receives the Holy Fire in Jerusalem. This is flown to Athens where it is distributed by torches around the country. At midnight, candlelight services are held. On Easter, Greeks enjoy traditional food such as lamb roasting on open spit-fires. Christopsomon is a traditional side dish served as well. It is a round flat loaf that is marked with a cross, decorated with red Easter eggs.
Greek Independence day is held yearly on March 25th. This holiday marks the day Greeks fought for independence from the Turks. It is celebrated with parades, fireworks and parties.
Christmas is celebrated in Greece as well with a few differences from American traditions. On Christmas Eve, children sing carols door to door. Citizens often give candy and money to children for their performances. Traditional lamb and Christmas Bread is also enjoyed in the evening. The Feast of St. Basil is when children receive presents. This holiday is on New Year's Day and celebrates Bishop Basil who dedicated his life to caring of the poor. The Greeks use this day to visit family and friends.
