1 - 4 of 4 Posts

nm1999

Active member
I am agonizing over what to give the child. I have been to plenty of christenings and I typically give money.

This is a different situation because I am a bit closer to the family than normal. I want to be more generous than I usually am. I will still give money, but I want to give a gift to open. Do you have any advice? It's a boy...
 
I would definitely give some money, and maybe a religious gift? I've given an icon, cross, that kind of thing.
 
I think you should find out what baptismal name he is taking (or being given) and then I would buy an icon of the saint he will be named after. You can also ask the parents for suggestions ...
 
When I had to pick a gift for my cousin’s christening, I wanted something more personal than just money. I found a small trusou botez ieftin fete from Lovia that was beautifully made, and even though it was simple, it felt really special to give. The family loved it, and it gave the baby something to keep.
 
Last edited:

Where’s the Best Place in Greece to Experience Apokries?

If I were to go to Greece during Apokries, where should I go? I know it’s celebrated all over the country, but each region seems to have its own unique twist.

I’m torn between wanting to see something authentic and traditional versus something big and carnival-like. Do smaller towns do anything special, or is it best to experience it in a major city?

I’ve heard about flour wars in Galaxidi, the goat-mask dancers in Skyros, and those fire-lit parades in Xanthi, all sound amazing but so different!

If you’ve been in Greece during Apokries, where would you recommend going, and why? Is there a particular village or island where it still feels old-world and local rather than touristy?

Decorating the Christmas Boat?

I’ve always loved seeing photos of the decorated Greek Christmas boat, but I’ve never actually done it myself. This year I’m thinking of finally giving the tradition a try, and I’d love some guidance from those who grew up with it or still decorate one at home.

How do you choose the size or style of the boat? Do people usually use a wooden model, something handmade, or even a simple paper version? I’m also curious about how it’s decorated, is it mostly lights and ribbons, or are there specific colors and symbols that carry meaning? And where in the house do you typically place it?

I’ve read that the tradition goes back to honoring sailors and welcoming loved ones home for the holidays, which I find beautiful. If anyone has stories, photos, or tips for creating a first Christmas boat, I’d love to hear them.

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.

Village Storytelling Traditions in Greece?

I’m curious — are there still village storytelling traditions in Greece?

My family originally came from a few small mountain villages, but we’ve been in the U.S. for several generations now, and we don’t really have anyone left back in Greece to ask about this. I’ve been thinking about visiting someday, and I keep wondering: if I went to those villages, would there still be older people who share stories the way our grandparents used to?

I don’t mean just local history from books or museums — I’m thinking more about personal stories, folktales, myths, or even funny old family anecdotes passed down out loud.

Does that kind of thing still exist in rural Greece today? Would it be welcomed if I asked about it while visiting, or is it something that has faded away with time?

I’d love to know what to expect and how to approach it respectfully.

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?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top