New Year’s Day in Greece ― Date, History, and Details

New Year’s Day in Greece

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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of New Year’s Day in Greece and why people celebrate or observe it.

History of New Year’s Day in Greece and How to Celebrate/ Observe It

In Greece, New Year’s Day is celebrated with a special meal and traditional foods. The most common dish served is Vassilopita, which is a cake with a coin hidden inside. The person who finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the year. Other traditional foods served on New Year’s Day include lentils, which are thought to bring good luck, and vasilopitta, a type of bread pudding.

People also exchange gifts on New Year’s Day and may give each other lucky charms or money. Many people attend church services on New Year’s Day and some stay up all night to watch the first sunrise of the year.