Celebrating the New Year on the Greek island of Rhodes

Every year, January 1 is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm on the island of Rhodes. The people of Rhodes look forward to this day, as it is not only Protohronia (New Year) for them, but also Saint Basil’s day. Children of all ages are eager to receive gifts from Saint Basil. The island of Rhodes has its own meaning of the New Year and many different traditions and celebrations are associated with it.

Celebrating the New Year in Rhodes provides an opportunity to reveal the culture and traditions of this place. Different celebrations and fireworks shows are organized throughout the island. To make your holiday in Rhodes special during the New Year, the preparations for this mega-event begin in advance.

Vasilis:

When it comes to the island of Rhodes, there is always something interesting every year. Here you can enjoy fabulous moments and create extraordinary memories of your Rhodes vacation. People greet the new year with the greatest delight. According to a tradition, any boy or girl named Vasilis receives gifts and wishes. The churches and monasteries named after Vasilis plan special celebrations.

New Year’s Eve Cake – Vassilopita:

Also known as the Feast of Saint Basil, cutting the New Year’s Eve cake is one of the oldest traditions on the island of Rhodes, Greece. A coin is placed inside the cake. The head of the house cuts the cake and distributes slices to all family members. It is believed that whoever gets the slice with a coin has a lucky year. So don’t forget to cut the New Year’s Eve cake with your family during the Rhodes holidays.

Game:

The Greeks believe that much good fortune is associated with the New Year. Therefore, people consider gambling lucky. It doesn’t matter if they win or lose, they keep betting all day. Following tradition, they gather around a table covered in green felt and play cards. Playing cards and rolling dice has become a custom in Rhodes.

Container filling:

As part of the ancient New Year traditions in Rhodes, people empty a water container and then fill it with fresh water.

Festivals and other celebrations:

To ring in the New Year, many hotels and restaurants organize special New Year parties. Similarly, the celebrations take place in bars and cafes. Special gala evenings and musical nights are organized. These parties start at midnight and last until morning.

New Year’s carols:

New Year’s carols are a must in Rhodes. Children visit their neighborhood houses while singing Kalanda and greeting them with New Year wishes. The homeowners give small gifts or money to these children.

Greetings and gifts:

New Year gifts play a vital role in New Year celebrations. People often greet their loved ones and exchange gifts with them. There are a number of New Year’s Eve songs that people sing and dedicate to their loved ones on this occasion.

Rhodes Holidays promises great opportunities to enjoy, especially around the New Year. It doesn’t matter if you come with your friends, family and partner or alone; this beautiful island will fulfill all your holiday wishes and make it a wonderful New Year for you.