Christmas in Cyprus is traditionally a solemn, religious holiday. Throughout the festivities, there is no doubt that Cyprus honours our Lord. Beautiful carols called "kalanda" have been handed down from Byzantine times and add to the reverent quality of the celebration. On Christmas Eve children go from door to door with "triangles" and sometimes flutes and sing: "Christos Gennatai Simeron" (Christ is born today) They usually get some money or candies . Turkeys and the Christmas cake have invaded Greek Cypriot Christmas traditions since the British rule in the 1950s. For many Cypriots the holiday is preceded by a time of fasting.
Nowadays, most Cypriots celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at home with the family. We usually roast turkey stuffed with rice, raisins and chicken giblets and serve it with cranberry sauce, vegetables and potatoes. Then comes the Christmas Cake, Melomakarona , Kourabiedes and coffee with brandy or liqueur if desired.
How do you celebrate Christmas in your part of the world?
Recent Comments