In Greece, winter is usually wet, with temperatures seldom reaching 15 degrees Celsius and above. If you are lucky, you might catch some sunshine and clear blue skies but no chances of snow. With weather like this, expect to wander around the streets of Athens for hours without getting cold – just make sure you bring an umbrella or a rain coat.
Christmas decorations and events are organized each year in the central Syntagma Square. Towering over the square is a giant Christmas tree, decorated with a multitude of lights that can be seen from far away. The tree is part of the Christmas village that is built here every year, a fascinating setting with fairy-tale houses, elves, clowns and other performers that liven up the atmosphere.
As a major holiday in Greece, Christmas traditions are consciously kept alive by the people. Carol singing is a popular activity on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, when children go from door to door to spread good cheer through carols (or kalanda) and receive sweets and a few coins.
Holidays in Greece are abundant, at least from a culinary point of view. Every household serves traditional treats, such as kouriambedies, cookies with walnuts or almonds sprinkled with powdered sugar. In many pastry shops, you will find vassilopita, a delicious Christmas cake with a lucky charm hidden in it. Also try melomakarona, a Greek version of macaroons.
