Greek celebrations

Music, dancing, singing and merriment in general is very much a part of life in Crete, but especially so during festival times and public holidays.  If you are lucky enough to be here on any of these occasions, you may well find that you will invited along to join in with the festivities.  But be warned, Cretan hospitality knows no bounds, and this is especially true at their celebrations.  You may find that once you are there with the food, local wine and all the music and dancing, you will not be able to leave so easily.....!!

PRINCIPLE FESTIVALS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS..

January 1   

New Years Day             

January 6               

Epiphany – this is the day when the waters are blessed throughout Greece.  A bishop throws a cross into the water, and the young men dive for it.  The one who retrieves the cross is honoured.

FEBRUARY              

The two weeks preceding lent are given over to carnival parades and costume parties and general high spirits.

CLEAN MONDAY      

The start of Orthodox Lent and a day of fasting.  The Cretan skies are filled with kites, because this is traditionally a day of kite flying.

MARCH 25              

Greek Independence Day.  Towns and villages celebrate with large military parades.

MAY 1                   

May Day.  Locals go into the country and pick flowers, which are hung over their door celebrating the arrival of spring.