by Maria Mavroudi and Carolina Alkalai, co-founders of the Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel.
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Greece is a truly magical experience, where the charm of the country’s traditions blends seamlessly with warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Athens to the serene Greek islands, the New Year is ushered in with festivities steeped in history and culture. Here’s a glimpse into some beloved traditions and tips to make your celebration unforgettable.
Greek New Year’s Carols (Kalanta Protochronias)
One of the most heartwarming traditions is the singing of Greek New Year’s carols, or Kalanta Protochronias (Κάλαντα Πρωτοχρονιάς). Sung by children and adults alike, these carols carry wishes for health, prosperity, and happiness. The tunes vary across regions, with places like the Dodecanese Islands incorporating unique dialects and melodies. On New Year’s Eve, children take to the streets with triangles and various other musical instruments, holding lit up church-shaped lanterns or decorated boats, sharing well-wishes from house-to-house for the “kalohronia” (the good New Year). They stop at every house, knock on the door and ask “Na ta poume?” (Shall we sing?). The occupants will offer a sweet offering in exchange, sweets, typically melomakarona and kourabiedes, as well as a symbolic amount of money.
Modern renditions by Greek artists add a fresh touch to these cherished songs, making them an enchanting soundtrack for the holiday season. Keep an ear out for these carols—they are sure to add a festive sparkle to your New Years’ experience.
The Vasilopita: A Cake for Luck
A central tradition of Greek New Year’s is the Vasilopita, a cake baked with a hidden coin inside. The cutting of the Vasilopita is one of the few primitive customs that have survived for about 1500 years. At midnight, families gather to cut the cake, dedicating each slice to a member of the household or even symbolic aspects like the house or business. Whoever finds the coin is believed to have good fortune for the year ahead. The act of sharing this cake embodies a spirit of hope and unity.
Another New Year custom is the “bouloustrina“. Young children on the first day of the year visit relatives, who give them the “bouloustrina”, a symbolic amount of money as a gift. This custom is still practiced in most parts of the Dodecanese.
First Footing (Podariko)
The tradition of First Footing, or Podariko, involves choosing the first person to enter the house after midnight. This “first footer” is thought to bring good luck for the year ahead, and families often select someone known for their “lucky” qualities to perform this symbolic act.
Pomegranates: A Symbol of Prosperity
Another fascinating custom is the smashing of a pomegranate at the doorstep. This vibrant fruit, a symbol of abundance and good fortune, is broken just after midnight as part of a New Year’s blessing. The more seeds that scatter, the greater the prosperity believed to come to the household. Usually, the householder is the first to enter the house with the pomegranate in hand. They ought to say at the same time “With health, happiness and joy may the new year find us, and as many seeds as the pomegranate has, the happier and blessed days the days of the new year will be”. Also, it is customary to step on an iron so that everyone is strong and resilient next year.
Saint Basil’s Day
In Greece, New Year’s Day coincides with Saint Basil’s Day, honoring Saint Basil (Agios Vasilis), a figure akin to Santa Claus in Greek culture. The day is marked by festivities, acts of charity, and the continuation of New Year’s celebrations.
A Feast to Remember
No Greek celebration is complete without an indulgent feast. On New Year’s Eve, tables are filled with traditional dishes like roasted lamb or pork, mezedes (appetizers), and sweets. Apart from the melomakarona and kourabiedes, the festive table isn’t without “xerotigana” or “diples” (fried dough strips) and doughnuts. These are often paired with local wines, ouzo, or tsipouro. Traditional Greek music and dancing bring the festivities to life, often continuing well into the early hours of the morning.
Island Celebrations: A Unique Charm
For those seeking a more intimate and traditional experience, the Greek islands offer a cozy ambiance. For example, on Astypalea Island, New Year’s Eve is celebrated with community gatherings, folk music, and a serene atmosphere that highlights the island’s authentic charm.
According to tradition, if New Year’s Day is sunny, then it’s believed the weather will keep the same for forty days. People will say: “The bear is sunning her teddy bears, we will not have a heavy winter”. But if the weather is bad, then we should expect a heavy winter for forty days.
A New Year’s Eve to Treasure
Whether you find yourself in a vibrant city square or a quiet island village, celebrating New Year’s in Greece is a remarkable blend of joy, tradition, and unforgettable memories. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in heartfelt customs that have been passed down for generations, while also embracing the warmth and hospitality for which Greece is known.
Give the Gift of a Summer Getaway!
This New Year’s, why not treat yourself -or someone special- to a gift that keeps the celebration going? At Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel, we’re offering an exclusive Holiday Voucher that’s perfect for a summer escape. Plan ahead for an unforgettable holiday under the Greek sun, and give yourself something to look forward to as you ring in the New Year.
Whether it’s a gift for yourself or a loved one, this voucher is a meaningful way to celebrate the season while dreaming of summer adventures.
Click here (https://www.kallichoron.gr/en/offers-en/holiday-vouchers) or Contact our Reservations Team (at +30 6936 889888 or info@kallichoron.gr) to learn more about this special offer and make the first step toward your next perfect holiday.
