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Why Do Greeks crack eggs for Easter?

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greggd12

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Hey guys, what's this tradition all about? Does cracking eggs mean anything or is it just a fun game?
 
It's symbolic of Jesus's resurrection. He rose out of the tomb, just the same as we crack the shell (the tomb) to get the egg out. There is a game associated with it, as well. We take turns cracking the ends of the eggs together, and the winner is the one whose egg stays intact. Folklare tradition says they are also blessed with good luck. :)

Why-Do-We-Dye-Eggs-Red-for-Easter-720x480.jpg
 
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k_tsoukalas said:
It's symbolic of Jesus's resurrection. He rose out of the tomb, just the same as we crack the shell (the tomb) to get the egg out. There is a game associated with it, as well. We take turns cracking the ends of the eggs together, and the winner is the one whose egg stays intact. Folklare tradition says they are also blessed with good luck. :)

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True! It's a fun game with a lot of significance. Here's a link that explains a bit more: https://greekreporter.com/2012/04/13/the-symbolism-of-cracking-red-eggs-on-easter/
 
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I think it’s just fun to crack them
 
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JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

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.

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I recently heard that name days are a big deal in Greek culture—sometimes even more important than birthdays! My family has never celebrated them, so I’m curious: how do Greek families typically celebrate name days?

Do people throw parties or have a big dinner? Is there a religious aspect to it, like going to church or lighting a candle for the saint? And how do people know when someone’s name day is?

I’d love to hear what kinds of traditions are tied to name days—whether it’s a small gathering with sweets and coffee, or something more elaborate. Do people give gifts, or is it more about the social connection?

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But I’m wondering, do people still do this? I know it’s a classic Greek thing, but I’ve also heard that in modern times, many venues don’t allow it, or people opt for safer alternatives like throwing flowers or using napkins. Some say it’s more of a touristy thing now, but I still associate it with joy, energy, and that unapologetic Greek celebration spirit.

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

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