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nadellii

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This is some thing that I’ve noticed throughout the culture, and of course from the classic movie, My Big Fat at Greek Wedding. And I am just wondering, what is the actual reason that Greek people usually only marry within their culture? Does it have something to do with history, religion, or anything else? This is also some thing that is pretty common amongst other cultures, I definitely see it strongly in Jewish culture, Middle Eastern cultures, and Indian culture as well.
 
It's because we understand each other. The Greek culture is also very strong and we bring hellenism wherever we go. If we marry a non-greek then we force them to accept the Greek culture.

It's not just Greeks, it's also other cultures/races too... people tend to marry people who have similar customs/histories/backgrounds
 
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I married a northern Italian and I regret it every day Greeks are different but all the same doesn’t matter where you are we all understand each other.
 
I think this is a bigger deal in the US. My husband had many Greek Americans try and convince him not to marry me. They could introduce him to a nice Greek girl. Relatives in Greece were extremely welcoming and we have cousins and friends there that are married to non-Greeks. 33 years later we are still married, have a summer home in Greece and visit for two months every year.
 
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It really all depends on the family. I have plenty of Greek friends who didn't marry Greeks, and all of my cousins didn't marry Greeks. Although, speaking from experience, it can be hard. It's nice to have someone as a partner who understands your cultural background.
 
Greeks that dont marry other Greeks do it out of hatred of their own kind, parents, and themselves. Also when they do marry a non-Greek they leave the religion and the culture behind wanting nothing to do with it, even their family and relatives they abandon. But many get divorced, even to non-Greeks not knowing that the problem was always themselves. Around 80% of the Greek diaspora marry non-Greeks but 10% of Greeks in Greece marry non-Greeks.
One who abandons their own has loyalty to no one.
 

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!

Who's an atheist

What percentage of Greeks are atheists? Not just in Greece but other places

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?

How to Celebrate Name Days?

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?

Would really appreciate hearing how your family celebrates, especially if you’re keeping this tradition alive outside of Greece!

Do you still break plates at celebrations?

My cousin is getting married later this year, and during the planning, she mentioned something that made me smile—she wants to break plates at the reception! It brought back memories of older family weddings where the music was loud, the dancing was wild, and the plates were flying (safely, of course).

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.

Has anyone here actually broken plates at a recent event, especially a wedding? Was it allowed at the venue, or did you find a workaround? Curious to hear your stories, advice, or modern twists on the tradition!
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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