What do Greek Orthodox celebrate?

According to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Orthodox Christians celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on Great and Holy Pascha. It is the most significant day in the life of the Orthodox Church, and is a celebration of the defeat of death.

Do Orthodox Christians celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas?

Eastern Orthodoxy For the Eastern Orthodox, both Christmas and Epiphany are among the Twelve Great Feasts that are only second to Easter in importance. The period between Christmas and Epiphany is fast-free. During this period one celebration leads into another. 29 December is the Orthodox Feast of the Holy Innocents.

Do Greek Orthodox have Christmas?

Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on 7 January. However, the celebrations often begin at midnight on “Christmas Eve”, meaning 6 January.

Is Greek Orthodox Christmas the same as Catholic?

Firstly, the difference between Orthodox and Catholic Christmas is quite simply an issue about dates. Therefore, while the West celebrates the birth of Christ on the 25th December (according to the Gregorian Calendar), the Orthodox Church, in accordance with the Julian Calendar, celebrate Christmas on the 7th January.

What are Greek Christmas traditions?

The most popular traditions are the decoration of the Christmas boat, the Greek Christmas carols, the tradition of Saint Basil’s cake, the pomegranate, “kalikatzaroi”. And of course all the Greek Christmas treats, which every household prepares at Christmas time.

How do Greek Orthodox celebrate Easter?

Easter celebrations in Orthodox Christian communities usually include a spit-roast lamb dinner and a display of hard-boiled eggs, dyed red to symbolize the blood of Christ. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary dyed eggs red to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ and to celebrate life.

Why do Greek Orthodox celebrate Christmas on December 25?

Unlike other countries that are part of the European Union, Greece still has the true meaning of such a holiday as the Nativity of Christ – the birth of Jesus Christ. The date of this holiday is determined following the Gregorian calendar, so it falls on December 25th.

What do they call Santa in Greece?

Ayios Vassileios
The Greek Santa Claus is known as “Ayios Vassileios” in Greek. He is like the father of Christmas; also an old man with a white beard, who is wearing a red cape.

What is Greek Christmas called?

Christougena
Greek Christmas (Christougena) is celebrated on the 25th of December and is the time when families come together to celebrate. Throughout Christmas holidays there are several Greek Christmas traditions that passed from generation to generation and are still celebrated.