Holiday Calendar for Greece

While tourists mostly think of the islands, most Greeks actually live in the capital or Thessaloniki. The whole country has more than 250 days of sun on average. The amount of tourists is more than double the amount of Greeks during the summer.

In fact, the country’s real name is the Hellenic Republic, and also Hellas, which is the original word for Greece. The Ancient Greeks held many festivals to honor the gods and goddesses. Greek gods were the superheroes of the universe.

Vasilopita is a Greek cake eaten during the new year celebrations. The Greeks believe that finding a coin in your slice of the New Year cake is believed to bring good luck.

They most often celebrate name days instead of birthdays. Most common Greek names are based on religious saints. There are more than 4000 traditional dances around the country.

The Greek language is unique and has continuously been used for more than 5000 years. The Greek alphabet was the first to use vowels.

The Athenian Democracy was a system dating back to the fifth century B.C. It was a system of direct democracy, where citizens with voting-rights voted directly on legislation and executive bills. The Olympic Games originated in Ancient Greece.

Ikaria is what the scientists call a “blue zone” where people have the longest lifespans in the world.

Emerald waters, beautiful beaches and sunsets, quaint villages, and warm and welcoming locals – the Greek Islands are an integral part of the country’s history, culture, and traditions. There are wild dolphins swimming in the Greek waters.