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kcixcy

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hey everyone! My husband is Greek and we're going to be celebrating Greek Easter this year and I wanted to know if there are any trendy or cool ways to die a Greek Easter eggs. I want to add my own twist and get the kids involved too. Drop pics if you have them!!
 
We have always stayed with the tried and true Greek tradition of dying all of the Easter eggs red, although having some different colors for the kids can certainly be fun!

greek-easter-720x480.jpeg
 
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We have always stayed with the tried and true Greek tradition of dying all of the Easter eggs red, although having some different colors for the kids can certainly be fun!

View attachment 92
In our family, only red eggs, symbolic of the blood that Christ shed for us. I guess different colors could have been fun as long as the true symbolism was internalized. As for a trendy way to dye them? Red food coloring doesn't do the trick. I purchase some non-toxic dye from Sophia's Market in Lowell, MA. My mother actually used to use Ritz dye...thank God we didn't get poisoned!
 
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In our family, only red eggs, symbolic of the blood that Christ shed for us. I guess different colors could have been fun as long as the true symbolism was internalized. As for a trendy way to dye them? Red food coloring doesn't do the trick. I purchase some non-toxic dye from Sophia's Market in Lowell, MA. My mother actually used to use Ritz dye...thank God we didn't get poisoned!

I can't believe they used ritz dye!!! Remember we used to use food coloring, but the eggs would be pink LOL. The dye we get from the Greek store works really well.
 
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Mom, I can't believe they used ritz dye!!! Remember we used to use food coloring, but the eggs would be pink LOL. The due we get from the Greek store works really well.
Yup, I speak truth. That's what MY mother did. I never did.
 
In our family, only red eggs, symbolic of the blood that Christ shed for us. I guess different colors could have been fun as long as the true symbolism was internalized. As for a trendy way to dye them? Red food coloring doesn't do the trick. I purchase some non-toxic dye from Sophia's Market in Lowell, MA. My mother actually used to use Ritz dye...thank God we didn't get poisoned!
We have always stayed with the tried and true Greek tradition of dying all of the Easter eggs red, although having some different colors for the kids can certainly be fun!

View attachment 92
I tried the dye from the greek markets as well as the 'american' dyes but can't get it right. I heard that using onion skins or beet roots do a good job, trying to decide which to try this year. Anyone have a good/bad experience with either?
 
I tried the dye from the greek markets as well as the 'american' dyes but can't get it right. I heard that using onion skins or beet roots do a good job, trying to decide which to try this year. Anyone have a good/bad experience with either?
I've tried beet root before, the color wasn't as strong but I did like the fact that it was all natural so it was sort of worth it. Something about eating the eggs after they're soaked in chemical dyes doesn't sit right with me.
 
hey everyone! My husband is Greek and we're going to be celebrating Greek Easter this year and I wanted to know if there are any trendy or cool ways to die a Greek Easter eggs. I want to add my own twist and get the kids involved too. Drop pics if you have them!!
We use birthday candles (because they are thin) to draw on the eggs BEFORE you dye them. If you do that then the dye does not adhere to the egg and you can see the design in white after it's done! They look great!
 

Tips for Learning and Teaching Greek

I know how to speak Greek okay, but I am not great at it. I want to brush up on my skills, and I also want to teach some of my family members. I am good enough at it to the learn the basics. I am looking for advice, but I've also compiled some ideas:

1. Spend an extended period of time in Greece

There’s no better way to learn Greek than to immerse yourself in the language and culture of Greece. If you have the opportunity, consider spending an extended time in Greece, studying or working, taking a sabbatical, or just exploring the country. Living in Greece can help you understand the nuances of the language, such as the different accents, dialects, and slang that are used. You’ll also have the chance to practice your Greek with locals, watch Greek TV or films, and read Greek books or newspapers. I would imagine this is the best way to learn fast!

2. Use a language program

If you can’t travel to Greece or you prefer a more structured approach to learning Greek, consider using a language program. There are many language programs available online or in your local area, ranging from self-paced courses to interactive classes. Some popular language programs for Greek include Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and Pimsleur. From what I understand these are all great options and I can learn at my own pace.

3. Take classes

Taking classes is another excellent way to learn Greek, especially if you prefer face-to-face interaction and feedback. You can find Greek language classes in community colleges, universities, language schools, or private tutors. Taking classes can help you improve your Greek skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. You’ll have a teacher who can guide you through the learning process, answer your questions, and give you homework or assignments that challenge you. You’ll also have classmates who share your passion for Greek and can practice with you.

4. Find ways to immerse yourself outside of Greece

Even if you can’t go to Greece or attend classes, you can still immerse yourself in Greek in your daily life. One way is to find Greek-speaking communities or events in your area, such as cultural centers, festivals, or meetups. You can also use online resources to connect with Greek speakers, such as language exchange websites, social media groups, or chat apps. Listening to Greek music, watching Greek videos or podcasts, or reading Greek literature can also help you familiarize yourself with the sounds and patterns of the language.

Honestly, I plan to try all 4 - whatever I can do. I think it will all help.

Greek tradition of hanging onions on the door?

I just came from my friend's house and I saw there were onions hanging on the door! I asked them about it and learned it was a New Year's tradition. Here's what my research pulled out:

The Greek New Year is celebrated on the 1st of January, but the preparations for the celebration begin on the New Year’s Eve. As per tradition, the Greeks hang onions outside their house, balcony, or anywhere visible to attract good fortune, prosperity, and luck. The onions are hung, infused with various symbols like coins, bread, honey, and olives, representing prosperity, food, and success. This concept reminds the Greeks of their grandmothers, who hung onions outside their homes and gatherings during special occasions, especially New Year’s Eve.

Beyond the symbolic value of the onions, for Greeks, hanging onions also has medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Onions can purify the air and keep away harmful bacteria and impurities due to their sulfur compounds. Additionally, they are believed to have great health benefits and can help boost your immunity, reduce the risk of cancer, and regulate cholesterol levels.

Hanging onions is also a fun activity that the family enjoys together. Everyone gathers around and writes their wishes on the onions and ties them with a red thread, symbolizing good fortune. The onion is then hung outside the house, allowing the wishes to come true. The onions can also be collected at a later stage and used for cooking, acting as a souvenir that remains with the family for the rest of the year.

The notion of hanging onions is an ancient tradition in Greece, and the country takes pride in it. The ritual dates back to ancient Greece, where they were hung on doors and windows to keep away evil spirits and other unwanted energies. In Greece, the land of myths and legends, the onion symbolizes the new life that arises from the depths of the earth, representing hope, fertility, and growth.

List of Cretan Dances?

I will be attending a Cretan wedding and am curious about the traditional Cretan dances! I know the dances are slightly different and I want to learn some. I don't know the names of the dances so that I can look them up. I did some research, though. Are any of these dances common at these weddings?
  • Pentozali
  • Sousta
  • Siganos
  • Chaniotis
There's a dance the wedding party typically does in Crete. Which dance is that?

When does Orthodox lent start this year?

I noticed our Easter is late - May 5th - but Western Easter is at the end of March. Has Lent already started for them? When does our Lent start?

This year, I plan to do a stricter Lenten fast, so I want to plan some things out in advance.

Lent is a time for introspection, repentance, and spiritual growth. Through the dedicated practice of fasting, prayer, and charity, believers seek not only to grow closer to God but also to better understand themselves in relation to God’s will.

Greek Dance Instruction Video - Will Be Attending a Wedding

I will be attending a Greek wedding. They're friends of the family. Although I am Greek, many of our friends aren't. Since about 50% of the music at the reception will be Greek, I thought it would be fun to brush up on our Greek dancing together.

The problem is, I forget some of the dances, so I will also need to brush up. I can't teach people until I am a bit stronger.

I found this video. It's pretty good. Does anyone know of any more videos that can show me some Greek dancing?

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

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