New Year and Saint Basil’s Day

On December 31, children visit houses, shops, and coffeehouses carrying paper boats decorated with ribbons and small flags, singing songs of good wishes. In return, they receive money and traditional pastries from the locals. Adults also visit one another on this day.

On the morning of Saint Basil’s Day, after returning from church, men throw a pomegranate forcefully against the wall of their homes as a wish for happiness and prosperity for their families. It is believed that the more seeds scatter around, the more abundance and happiness the coming year will bring.

Feast of Aya Elios

On February 16, during the Feast of Aya Elios, men repeatedly jump into the sea and walk around in wet clothes throughout the day. Those who did not wish to participate were sometimes forced to do so.

Easter

On Easter Day, the Resurrection service is held outdoors, and believers attend carrying candles. As soon as the bells ring, young people release confetti, and people greet each other with the ceremonial phrase, “Christ is Risen.” Afterwards, everyone enters the church to receive the Holy Fire from the priest and carries it home to light their hearth.