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nadellii

Active member
Obviously, the main difference is that Greek weddings are usually held in a Greek orthodox church. But besides many of the religious and cultural factors, there are a few main differences that will probably stick out to any American people. The first is that Greek people do not have groomsmen or bridesmaids. The second, is that the wedding is not only about the couple, but the families as well. In Greek culture, the bride and grooms family are very involved in the wedding and it is considered a joining of their two families as well. Lastly, one of the major differences that I have noticed is that because the ceremony is a religious ceremony, it is not as personalized as American weddings where the couple exchanges vows.
 
Obviously, the main difference is that Greek weddings are usually held in a Greek orthodox church. But besides many of the religious and cultural factors, there are a few main differences that will probably stick out to any American people. The first is that Greek people do not have groomsmen or bridesmaids. The second, is that the wedding is not only about the couple, but the families as well. In Greek culture, the bride and grooms family are very involved in the wedding and it is considered a joining of their two families as well. Lastly, one of the major differences that I have noticed is that because the ceremony is a religious ceremony, it is not as personalized as American weddings where the couple exchanges vows.
While there isn't a groomsman or maid of honor, there is the person (or people) who participates in the ceremony by doing the ring part and the crown part of the Orthodox Wedding ceremony. In the United States, this role is often taken by either (or both) the maid of honor and groomsman, unless they aren't Orthodox Christians, then the bride and groom select people outside of the wedding party to do that part.
 
I noticed Greek weddings often go on much later into the night with more dancing, and the food never stops—lots of homemade dishes and plenty of ouzo or tsipouro going around.
 
I went to my cousin's wedding in Greece last summer and noticed a lot of cool personal details—especially how everyone added their own flair to the outfits and rings. My cousin picked one of those unique mens wedding bands that had a subtle Greek pattern engraved in it. It stood out without being flashy, and everyone kept asking him where he got it.
 

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?

Greek-American Thanksgiving Traditions

I know Thanksgiving in the United States is coming up, and it isn't a traditionally Greek holiday, it's an American one. Yet I know that Greek-Americans celebrate. I am curious – have Greek-Americans started their own traditions?

Do families mix classic Thanksgiving dishes with Greek flavors, like adding oregano or lemon to the turkey or serving a side of spanakopita or Greek-style potatoes? I’d love to hear if there are any unique ways Greek-American families blend these two cultures during the holiday. Maybe there's a special Greek dessert that gets added to the Thanksgiving spread, or traditional Greek blessings or toasts incorporated at the table?

I’m also curious about any differences between how Greek-American families celebrate Thanksgiving versus Christmas or other Greek holidays. Any tips, traditions, or recipes would be great – I’m hoping to add a little Greek touch to my family’s Thanksgiving this year!

Do Greeks have Christmas trees in their homes?

I’ve been learning about Greek Christmas traditions and noticed how rich and unique they are—like the karavaki (decorated boat) and the singing of kalanda (carols). It’s all so fascinating!

This got me wondering: do Greeks typically have Christmas trees in their homes, like many other countries do? If so, are they decorated in any special way that reflects Greek culture? Or are traditional decorations like the karavaki more common?

I’d also love to know if there are specific ornaments or symbols that hold special meaning during the Greek Christmas season. Also, how long do they keep the trees up if they do have them?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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