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auroracoor1

Active member
I was going to wear a floral dress to the service on Good Friday - I pretty much always do - and someone made a comment that they didn't think it's appropriate because it is a service of mourning.

You know, I guess that makes sense - but I haven't that much of it. What are your thoughts on it? I ended up choosing an outfit that looked a little more somber.

I am curious about the best things to wear through Holy Week! I am assuming the really spring-like colors are best on Pascha?
 
I was in just in church last night and the attire ranged from suits and dresses to jeans and a pretty top. The weekday services tend to be a bit more casual than what I am used to for a Sunday.
 
Weekday services may be a bit more casual, but Good Friday is the most solemn day of the year. When I was growing up it was considered taboo to wear a sleeveless dress or top, but I guess now, pretty much anything goes. My thought is jeans are definitely not ok for church, but I guess just being there is more important than what you're wearing.
 
Definitely floral is a no no unless it's all black and gray tones. It's a somber day. If you won't wear it to a funeral, don't wear it to that service. It's also a pretty dressy occasion. If you wear something casual you'll feel out of place.
 
It's about striking the right tone for the occasion. For Good Friday, somber vibes tend to fit better, but for Pascha, spring colors are a great choice to match the celebration.
 
For Good Friday, a somber outfit seems fitting, maybe in darker or more neutral colors. However, I don't think floral is completely out of place as long as it's not overly bright. For the rest of Holy Week, you can gradually shift to lighter and more joyful colors, with the most vibrant ones saved for Pascha. I usually go for something that reflects the somberness but isn't too heavy, maybe a simple dress or a nice blouse and skirt combo. I recently discovered Mato & Hash online and found some great options there. They have a mix of everything, from simple to more festive attire.
 
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Do you still break plates at celebrations?

My cousin is getting married later this year, and during the planning, she mentioned something that made me smile—she wants to break plates at the reception! It brought back memories of older family weddings where the music was loud, the dancing was wild, and the plates were flying (safely, of course).

But I’m wondering, do people still do this? I know it’s a classic Greek thing, but I’ve also heard that in modern times, many venues don’t allow it, or people opt for safer alternatives like throwing flowers or using napkins. Some say it’s more of a touristy thing now, but I still associate it with joy, energy, and that unapologetic Greek celebration spirit.

Has anyone here actually broken plates at a recent event, especially a wedding? Was it allowed at the venue, or did you find a workaround? Curious to hear your stories, advice, or modern twists on the tradition!

Tradition of Kallikantzaroi (Christmas Goblins)?

With the holiday season approaching, I’ve been thinking about some unique Christmas traditions I’ve come across, and one that really intrigues me is the Greek legend of the Kallikantzaroi—the mischievous Christmas goblins.

From what I understand, these goblins are said to come to the surface during the 12 days of Christmas, causing trouble and playing pranks, until they return underground on Epiphany. I’ve heard stories of people using special rituals, like burning incense or leaving out food, to ward them off.

Does anyone here know more about the origins of this tradition or how it’s celebrated in different parts of Greece? Are there specific regions where the legend is more prominent? Also, are there any fun family stories or modern twists people have added to the tradition?

Playing the tsougrisma game at Easter?

Hey everyone! With Easter coming up, I was thinking about the tsougrisma game we always play with the red eggs after the Resurrection service. You know—the egg cracking battle to see who ends up with the "uncracked champion"?

I’m curious—do you and your family still play it? And do the “rules” vary from house to house? In my family, we get very competitive about it—everyone picks their egg carefully and there's always a big cheer when someone stays undefeated!

I’d love to hear your stories. Do you play at midnight? At lunch the next day? Does your family do something funny or unique with it?

Share your traditions! It’s such a simple thing, but it really makes Easter feel complete for me.

Greek Tradition of Founouria?

Hi everyone! I was recently talking to a relative about Greek traditions, and they mentioned something called Fanouropita—a cake made in honor of Saint Fanourios. I had never heard of it before and now I’m so curious!

From what I gathered, people bake this cake to ask Saint Fanourios to help them find something lost, or even to reveal guidance or clarity in life. But I’m wondering—what’s the full story behind this tradition? Is it something you do on his feast day (August 27th), or can it be done anytime?

Also, what’s the significance of the cake itself? Why is it made with exactly 7 or 9 ingredients? I’d love to hear how your family does it—do you offer a prayer, light a candle, or share the cake with others?

Would appreciate any personal stories or recipes too. Thanks in advance!

What does Philoxenia mean to you?

I was trying to explain to someone today just how incredibly hospitable people in Greece are, and it hit me—this is philoxenia in action! For those who might not know, philoxenia literally means “friend to a stranger,” but it’s so much more than that. It’s about showing warmth, generosity, and respect to guests, often going above and beyond to make someone feel welcome.

I found it tough to put into words exactly what it means because it’s not just a concept—it’s something you feel when you experience it firsthand. Whether it’s someone sharing their food with you, helping you when you’re lost, or inviting you into their home, philoxenia is such a beautiful and unique part of Greek culture.

I’m curious, what are your thoughts on philoxenia?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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