Christmas in Greece - Where the Traditional Meets the Modern:
Until recently, Christmas in Greece was a quiet family holiday. While that is still true in many places, more and more public celebrations, such as the Christmas in Athens events, are making it feel very familiar for expatriates in Greece for the Christmas and New Year's holidays.
Faith and Food - Christmas in Greece Has Plenty of Both:
Christmas in Greece offers an array of homecooked specialties, many of which are easy to make and a few of which have even become Christmas traditions in other countries. The nutty pale white cookie covered in powdered sugar? That's Greek - and here's a recipe for kourabiedes.
Where to Enjoy Christmas in Greece:
Bigger cities and towns, such as Athens and Thessaloniki, will have many civic events for Christmas and New Year's. Athens provides a Christmas tree in Syntagma Square surrounded by a marketplace and child-friendly activity areas. On the islands, keep an eye out for decorated boats. Many villages will have a banner of lights stretching over the main road.
Planning Your Christmas in Greece:
If you're traveling in Greece for Christmas, remember these simple tips:
- Allow plenty of time if you're driving. Weather in late December can be changeable.
- In general, pay more attention to the weather reports around Christmas. Even Athens and Heraklion, Crete have gotten snow in recent winters.
- Want a white Christmas? Consider visiting one of the many ski resorts in Greece, which provide budget-friendly skiing and charming village atmospheres. You'll want to book early. One of the best options is the village of Delphi, just as beautiful at Christmas as it is during warmer weather.
- Major hotels catering to foreign visitors will usually have a Christmas feast. Make your reservations early.
- Foreign embassies in Greece may also offer Christmas events open to the public. Check with your embassy or consulate.
