In the Greek Orthodox faith, the biggest holiday is Easter. It is a time for food, feasting, and celebration. One Easter tradition is the "breaking of eggs". Each person takes an egg and challengers attempt to crack each others' eggs. The breaking of the eggs symbolizes Christ breaking from the Tomb. The person whose egg lasts the longest without breaking will have good luck for the rest of the year. There is also a huge Easter feast with salads, seafood, vegetable dishes, rice, breads, cakes, cookies, and wine. The main dish is usually lamb, and it is often the primary food at the center of the table. In Greek culture, babies born are named after a saint. Each year, they celebrate on both their birthday and their "Name Day". A Name Day is a day that is associated with a particular saint and all those who share that name celebrate on that day.
Orthodox Greek girls are supposed to wear skirts to the knee. While most people no longer do this, it is a tradition. Greek women and girls also must wear skirts to church to show respect.
The Greek Orthodox Church does not allow marriages to take place during the first two weeks of August, the 40 days around Christmas, and the 40 days of Lent around Easter. Greek Orthodox Churches will not perform wedding ceremonies during these times.
Family is particularly close and important for Greeks. Often, Greek parents will purchase a house for their child to help them financially. In addition, children (even as adults) often live at home with their parents until they get married.
If a Greek marries a non-Greek, the non-Greek is expected to convert before the marriage takes place.
(n.d.). (2002-2008). Greek cultural gardens. [Photograph].
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