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auroracoor1

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I noticed that there is a taverna culture of "gaming". I see tavli played all the time. Are there other games people play?

I am wondering if people play chess, checkers, that kind of thing? What about physical games like bocci like they play a lot in Italy? I have seen this game in Switzerland and other places, too, and wonder if the Greeks also play it.

Also, what do kids play for games in Greece?
 
People do play chess, checkers, I have also seen bocci if there was enough space... I also don't always see people playing games, too. There is ALWAYS a tavli player.
 
Tavli is definitely a popular game in the taverna culture, but there are also many other games played in Greece as well. For example, there's a card game called "Ξερή" (Xeri) which is similar to the game of Poker, and another one called "Πριμοστίχοι" (Primosticho) which is a trick-taking game.

As for physical games, I'm not sure about bocci specifically, but there is a game called "Καβάνα" (Kavana) which is similar to horseshoes, where players try to throw metal rings onto a target.

Have you heard about the blackout bingo scam that's been going around? It's important to be vigilant and aware of these types of scams, no matter where we are in the world.
 
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Tavli is indeed a popular choice, and you might also find Greeks enjoying classics like chess and checkers. Physical games like bocce might be less common, but it's possible you'll come across them too.
As for kids, they often have their own set of games. In Greece, you might see kids playing traditional outdoor games like tag, hide and seek, and variations of catch. It's a wonderful way for them to stay active and have fun.
By the way, if you're curious about trying out a unique gaming experience, you might want to check out the Solitaire Cash app. It's a modern twist on the classic card game and offers a chance to win while playing.
 
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I always wanted to learn both Tavli and Bocce. The only one I know how to play is checkers! Might be worth learning ahead of my next Greek trip.
 
I watched people playing Tavli while I was in Greece, but I didn't understand the rules of the game.
 
Tavli is everywhere in Greece—I swear, every taverna has at least one game going. I’ve also seen people playing card games like "Ξερή," which is kind of like poker in a way. Physical games like bocci aren’t super common, but there’s a game called "Καβάνα" that’s similar to horseshoes, and it looks like a lot of fun.
When it comes to kids, they’re usually running around playing games like tag or hide and seek. Keeps them busy for hours. Oh, and if you’re into trying something different, I’ve spent some time on Slot77 Online—it’s a pretty fun way to pass time when you’re in the mood for games but not hanging out at a taverna.
 
When I visited Greece, tavli was by far the most common game I saw, especially in cafes. I did spot a few people playing chess in public parks, but never really saw physical games like bocce taking place, mostly because outdoor tavernas usually don't have the open space for it. For kids, they were always outside, mostly playing tag, soccer, or hide and seek in the evenings. If you're into traditional games but can’t get out much, I found there are digital versions and online communities for lots of classic games. For something with a different cultural spin, you might like the online sabong matches and other games they feature at www.i-sabong.asia. It’s a fun way to experience traditional sports in a modern way.
 
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I ended up talking about ideas like honor, dignity, courage, generosity, and doing the right thing because it’s simply the right thing to do. I even used some historical examples, including the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae and the spirit of Ochi Day, to try to explain the sense of duty and selflessness that I associate with philotimo.

But I know the concept can also show up in much smaller, everyday ways. How would you explain philotimo to someone unfamiliar with Greek culture? What does the word mean to you personally?

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I grew up with the traditions here, like church services, red eggs, the midnight “Christos Anesti,” and of course the big Sunday feast, but I’m curious how it all feels in Greece. Is the atmosphere different? More intense? More communal?

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I also like the simplicity of the tradition. Even if there isn’t a big gathering, people still call or send messages to acknowledge the day.

Do you celebrate name days in your family? And are there certain ones that turn into larger celebrations because several people share the name?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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