Greek Traditions Community

Did you know about the Greek New Years tradition of hanging onions on doors?

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dubai_suzie

Active member
In Greece, there are many different New Year's traditions and some of them vary by location and the specific culture of the region. Most of them bring good luck and health for the new year, especially this onion tradition. Across all of Greece, families will hang a yellow onion on their door as a symbol of good luck. They will usually do this after the church service on New Year's Day. While not all families do this, you may see it next time you visit Greece in January, look out for it!
 
The onion symbolism is cool! Are there any other Greek symbols of luck at New Year's that some people do? I know Vasilopita is a big part of the New Year's traditions...
 
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Greek Tsiknopempti Traditions?

I realized Tsiknopempti is coming up soon, and it made me curious how everyone celebrates it, especially outside of Greece. Growing up, I always associated it with grilled meat, lots of smoke in the air, and a general feeling of celebration before Lent started, but we never had a really structured tradition at home. Now I’m wondering if I should start one.

Do you usually grill at home, go out to a Greek restaurant, or gather with friends and family? Are there certain foods you always make, or is it more about the atmosphere and being together? I’ve seen photos from Greece where entire neighborhoods are grilling outside, which looks amazing.

I’d love to hear what Tsiknopempti looks like for you, whether it’s something big and festive or just a simple meal that still feels meaningful.

Tips for Decorating the Wedding Bed - To Krevati

I've never decorated a wedding bed before, but I’ve been hearing more about the tradition of To Krevati and I’d really love to honor it. The groom’s family is from Greece, and while I’m not Greek myself, I want to surprise them by including something meaningful from the culture. I know it involves decorating the couple’s bed with linens, flowers, money, or even baby items for fertility—but beyond that, I’m not sure how to do it properly or respectfully.

Do you have any tips for setting up the Krevati? Are there specific items I should include—or avoid? Does it happen the night before the wedding, or earlier? Is it more symbolic or do guests actually gather for it?

Greek New Year Traditions?

I was thinking about Greek New Year’s and realized how different it can look depending on the family. Some people keep it very simple, others have a full house, food on the table, and specific traditions they do every year.

In my family, the focus was always on being together, cutting the vasilopita, and easing into the new year rather than making a big spectacle of it. I know some families stay up late, some go to church, and others treat it more like a quiet reset after the holidays.

I’m curious how others celebrate. Do you have any specific New Year’s traditions that feel especially Greek to you? Is there something you do every year without thinking about it, or something that only makes sense inside your family? I’d love to hear how people mark the start of the year.

Favorite Greek Christmas traditions?

I’m curious to hear everyone’s favorite Greek Christmas traditions, especially the ones that feel extra meaningful or unique to your family. I’ve been learning more about Greek culture and food this past year, and now I’m fascinated by how the holidays are celebrated in different regions.

I know about a few of the well-known traditions, like baking melomakarona and kourabiedes, decorating the small wooden karavaki (Christmas boat), and, of course, the incredible Christmas and New Year’s feasts. But I’d love to learn more about the customs that don’t get talked about as often.

Do you follow any local traditions from your village or island? Do you bake certain breads, sing kalanta, or do something special on Christmas Eve or St. Basil’s Day? I’m especially interested in the rituals that have been passed down through families. I am learning about Greek cooking and also about the culture.

Harvest Traditions in Greece for Olives?

I’ve always been fascinated by the olive harvest in Greece — not just the agricultural side, but the traditions that go along with it. I know olives have been a cornerstone of Greek life for thousands of years, and that harvest time is a big event in many villages.

For those who have experienced it firsthand, what’s the process like? Do families still gather together to pick olives by hand, or is it mostly done with modern equipment now? Are there specific rituals, blessings, or celebrations before or after the harvest?

I’ve heard that in some places, the first oil pressed is shared or offered in church — is that still common? And do different regions of Greece have their own unique customs tied to the olive harvest?

Would love to hear stories, memories, and local traditions from around the country.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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