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efhernandez_

Active member
-Syrtaki
-Zeibbekiko
-Kalamatiano
-Tsifteteli
-Hasapiko

Drop any more in the thread!
 
It depends on the area of Greece you're from and they're all important. Some areas of Greece won't dance the most well known traditional Greek dances that are known outside of Greece - they'll dance what is most popular in their area (e.g. people from Ipiros will mostly dance Ipirotika, and people from Crete will dance Kritika)

That said, the most well known dances to foreigners that I can I think of are:

Καλαματιανό
Ζεϊμπέκικο
Πεντοζάλη
Τσάμικο
Χασάπικο
Συρτάκι
Ικαριώτικο
Συρτός

The area where my family is from (ipiros and thessaly) mainly dances sta dyo, sta tria, karagouna, kalamatiano, and tsamiko.
 
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It depends on the area of Greece you're from and they're all important. Some areas of Greece won't dance the most well known traditional Greek dances that are known outside of Greece - they'll dance what is most popular in their area (e.g. people from Ipiros will mostly dance Ipirotika, and people from Crete will dance Kritika)

That said, the most well known dances to foreigners that I can I think of are:

Καλαματιανό
Ζεϊμπέκικο
Πεντοζάλη
Τσάμικο
Χασάπικο
Συρτάκι
Ικαριώτικο
Συρτός

The area where my family is from (ipiros and thessaly) mainly dances sta dyo, sta tria, karagouna, kalamatiano, and tsamiko.
How could I forget about tsamiko!! Thanks
 
I read once that there are thousands of Greek dances. I live in the United States and when I attend Greek festivals, it seems like there are a few main ones. I know how to dance those: Zybeikiko, Tsiftitelli, Kalamatianos, Tsamiko, Hasipiko, Hasaposervikos, Syrtaki, Pentazali (I keep needing a refresher on this one), and also the "Never on a Sunday" (I have no clue on the Greek name, if there is one).
 
I read once that there are thousands of Greek dances. I live in the United States and when I attend Greek festivals, it seems like there are a few main ones. I know how to dance those: Zybeikiko, Tsiftitelli, Kalamatianos, Tsamiko, Hasipiko, Hasaposervikos, Syrtaki, Pentazali (I keep needing a refresher on this one), and also the "Never on a Sunday" (I have no clue on the Greek name, if there is one).
That wouldn't surprise me because villages have their own versions of each dance and sometimes their own dances.

So Never on a Sunday (Ποτέ την Κυριακή) isn't actually a song, it's a movie. In the USA, "Never on a Sunday" is the name used when people are talking about the song "The Children of Pireaus" (Τα παιδιά του Πειραιά) which is in the movie Never on a Sunday.
 
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I read once that there are thousands of Greek dances. I live in the United States and when I attend Greek festivals, it seems like there are a few main ones. I know how to dance those: Zybeikiko, Tsiftitelli, Kalamatianos, Tsamiko, Hasipiko, Hasaposervikos, Syrtaki, Pentazali (I keep needing a refresher on this one), and also the "Never on a Sunday" (I have no clue on the Greek name, if there is one).
This is something that I struggle with. I always want to join in on the dances but I don't have the eye and rhythm to pick them up on the spot
 

Getting a Greek costume made?

I'm looking to have a traditional Greek costume made, and I want to ensure that it is as authentic and high-quality as possible.

It's for festival season but I don't know if I am in over my head. This could be anything from the iconic fustanella worn by men to the beautifully embroidered dresses seen in various regions across Greece. I’m open to suggestions on materials, designs, and specific regional styles that would make for a remarkable and authentic piece.

Could anyone here recommend a tailor or a shop—either within Greece or internationally—that specializes in creating traditional Greek clothing? It’s essential that they pay great attention to detail and use high-quality materials to capture the spirit and beauty of Greek traditional attire.

Additionally, if you have any advice on what specifics I should communicate to the tailor to ensure authenticity, or if you know of any resources where I could find patterns or detailed descriptions of traditional costumes, I would greatly appreciate it.

Greek Easter Holy Week Liturgies!

How to choose godparents?

I'm currently planning a baptism for a child in the Greek Orthodox Church and finding myself at a bit of a crossroads. One of the most significant decisions we're facing is choosing the right godparents. I understand that in our tradition, the role of a godparent is not only a great honor but also carries profound spiritual and moral responsibilities. They are to guide the child in the Orthodox faith, ensuring they grow in the church and its teachings.

How do you choose? I have a few candidates and am trying to narrow it down.

Greek Wedding Traditions Roundup

I am helping someone plan her Greek wedding. I wanted to make a list of all the traditions we need to keep in time for the big day. Did I miss anything?

The Stolisma

The wedding day begins with the ritual of 'Stolisma,' where the bride and groom are prepared separately by their families. It's a moment filled with emotion, songs, and blessings, setting the tone for the day. I had honestly never heard of this. Do people still do it?

The Krevati

An amusing tradition is the 'Krevati' (bed making), where family and friends gather to decorate the couple's future bed with baby items, symbolizing fertility and a happy family life. Money is also often thrown on the bed for good luck and prosperity.

The Crowning (Stefana)

One of the most iconic rituals during the ceremony is the exchange of crowns or 'Stefana.' I believe they need to buy the crowns they want in advance?

Koufeta

No Greek wedding would be complete without 'Koufeta'—sugar-coated almonds given to guests as wedding favors. These bittersweet treats represent the ups and downs of married life and are shared in odd numbers to symbolize indivisibility and shared life.

Appropriate clothing for Holy Week services?

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

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