Greek Easter
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Spring is a time that Greeks have linked with the Greek Easter. Easter in Greece takes place on the 16th of April this year. It usually is one week after Catholic Easter. Drumming, fireworks, pitcher-breaking, floating lanterns, the manners and customs of Easter in Greece are many and impressive.
During the Easter weekend, people spend time with their families and friends. Throughout the week, women prepare food and mainly desserts, for Easter Sunday. On the Thursday before Easter, women with children paint eggs. Usually, the tradition has to paint them red, but more colours have been added in the last few years, preparing traditional Easter cookies and tsourekia (a kind of sweet bread). All these can be consumed on Easter Sunday and not before that.
On Easter Sunday, the tradition has to roast a large lamb, which men prepare from 5-6 in the morning and let it cook until around midday. Then the table is served with all the delicacies prepared since early morning. Of course, music is in the background, with some people dancing and celebrating.
Below are a few unique Easter breaks in amazing islands:
Easter in Skiathos
Skiathos is one of the few places in Greece where Easter weekend is celebrated uniquely. The atmosphere on the island creates a feeling of elation and excitement, with the city's narrow streets and all the inhabitants walking in the streets candle-lit on Good Friday Night. It is a pleasant experience, especially if you want a quiet island to spend the weekend!
Easter in Corfu
Corfu has a rich tradition of Easter customs. On the Saturday before Easter, many tourists will come across a unique custom the locals have kept for centuries. Plain or painted jugs filled with water and usually decorated with red ribbons are thrown with force from the decorated balconies of houses. The event takes place in the most central spot, next to Liston, where a crowd cheers every throw. It sounds dangerous, but people are not allowed to go very close. You can view the event from your hotel balcony or the main square.
Easter in Patmos - Niptiros Ceremony
Patmos Island is a unique place to experience Easter. The island has many churches; most come together in the main square with light candles to celebrate Easter. Visitors will experience unique island traditions and how the locals celebrate.