In Greece, there arean abundance of Christmas traditions, especially since the majority of the people in Greece practice Christianity. Like other children celebrating all around the world, on Christmas Eve in Greece there is a tradition of children singing Christmas carols. Greek children differentiate themselves from the children of other nationsby going door to door singing Christmas carols (or kalanda in Greek). This tradition goes back thousands of years. Here’s what you should know about the Greek tradition of singing Christmas carols.
History of Kalenda
Caroling (kalanda) has roots in ancient Greece. Children would carry small boats (Christmas boats or “karavaki” meaning little ship) and sing songs honoring Dionysius. In Ancient Greece the children would praise the head of the household. At this time in history they would also gift the head of the household with an olive branch, which signified prosperity. Greek Christmas carols date back to the Byzantine times.
After singing for the household, the children would often be invited inside for a refreshment. It is thought that the significance of the boats has to do with Saint Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos) who is the Patron Saint of Sailors in Greece and is celebrated on December 6. Additionally, when seamen returned home during Christmastime, their wives would welcome them home with small wooden boats that they had decorated for the occasion. Boats have great significance in Greece, which is not surprising considering its location and history.
Kalenda Tradition Today
Many of the elements of this Greek Christmas Eve tradition still exist today. Carols are sung on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Epiphany Eve, which is on January 5. Children go door to door asking for permission to enter the home to sing the songs. When the homeowner lets them come inside, they begin singing. They sing traditional carols, such as the Greek translation of Silent Night and also the popular Greek carol, Κάλαντα Χριστουγέννων, or The Kalanda Song. This the most traditional, and ifthe singersonly have time to sing one song, this tends to be it.
It is not uncommon that the children will add some lines that wish the head of the household prosperity for the year ahead and a long life. They often bring along triangles to bang as they sing. The playing of the triangle is not necessarily in tune with the carols they sing, but is rather part of the tradition. Other instruments, such as harmonicas or drums, may also be used. Sometimes children will still carry the small decorated boats. When they are done singing, the homeowners will give them edible treats, such as cookies or sweet rolls, or small amountsof money.
The Greek tradition of kalanda, or singing Christmas carols, on Christmas Eve is one with a long and interesting history. This is a tradition that is still in place today and is a big part of the way Greek celebrate Christmas.
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FAQs
Greek parents generally have a lot of influence over their children throughout their lives and are deeply devoted to them. Indeed, Greek children often live in their parents' home for years into their adulthood. Newlywed couples may also live in the home of their in-laws until they can find or afford their own housing.
What is kalanda in Greece? ›
Like other children celebrating all around the world, on Christmas Eve in Greece there is a tradition of children singing Christmas carols. Greek children differentiate themselves from the children of other nationsby going door to door singing Christmas carols (or kalanda in Greek).
What is the Greek tradition of krevati? ›
A very ancient wedding tradition that is not as common anymore is 'To Krevati'. Friends and family of the bride and groom are invited to join in the 'bed making' process prior to the wedding. Only unmarried women are able to make the bride's and groom's bed with fresh bed sheets.
How important is family in Greek culture? ›
Family plays a central role in Greek life and it's not uncommon for Greek families to have adult children, grandparents, or other relatives living at home with them. Greeks enjoy good food and good company and love to have lively conversation with friends and family during meals!
What is the most important Greek tradition? ›
Easter is the most important religious and family festival, with many people returning to their native villages for the traditional festivities, which include the vigil in church on Saturday evening, the lighting of the Holy Fire at midnight on Easter morning, and the roasting of whole lambs on spits for the Easter ...
What does kalanda mean? ›
Kalanda is Latin word and it means the first day of New Year. The phrases: Kalanda Bread and Wine, Kalanda Pig, Pig's Jaw are related to the festival of Kalanda. In older times, sortly before Kalanda begins, the whole family must stand up.
What do you call a person from Greece? ›
In English, however, both “Greek” and “Hellenic” are used. When most English speakers say “Greek” today, they mean the people and culture associated with the modern nation-state of Greece.
What is a traditional Greek wedding in Greece? ›
Greek wedding ceremonies feature an elaborate ritual with the crowns. First, the priest places a crown on both the bride and groom's head. Then, the Koumbaros, or wedding sponsor, intertwines the crowns three times to symbolize the couple's union. Finally, the crowns are tied together with a ribbon.
What are some Greek rituals? ›
The practices of ritual washing before sacrifice, sprinkling barley grains, and making token offerings of hair are described by Homer. Victims were required to be free of blemish, or they were likely to offend the deity. Sacrifice also was made to chthonian powers in the evening.
What is a bride bed? ›
bridebed (plural bridebeds) (poetic) The marriage bed.
The mourning period
Candles and incense might be lit to signify the presence of a loved one, and the bereaved are encouraged to pray and reflect. A commemoration service will usually take place one week after the person has died, and then they'll recur after 40 days and then again at the 1-year mark.
What to bring to a Greek person's house? ›
# Bring a present
The hostess will surely tell you that it was no need to take the trouble, but she will be flattered to receive it. This present can be a bottle of wine, some sweets or flowers. No need for something expensive or exaggerating.
What is typical of Greek culture? ›
Greeks, as a culture, are extremely family-orientated. Everything revolves around the family. Everyone is seen to be related to everyone else, and so celebrations such as weddings and baptisms can result in a guest list of over 1,000 people!
In Greece, there arean abundance of Christmas traditions, especially since the majority of the people in Greece practice Christianity. Like other children celebrating all around the world, on Christmas Eve in Greece there is a tradition of children singing Christmas carols. Greek children differentiate themselves from the children of other nationsby going door to door singing Christmas carols (or kalanda in Greek). This tradition goes back thousands of years. Here’s what you should know about the Greek tradition of singing Christmas carols.