Christmas
Santorini during Christmas is a world away from the bustling summer crowds and sun-soaked beaches that the island is famously known for. Instead, the winter season offers a more intimate, tranquil experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s authentic charm and local traditions. Here’s what you can expect from Santorini at Christmas:
1. Quieter Atmosphere: The throngs of tourists that usually populate the island’s streets, especially in places like Oia and Fira, are significantly fewer. This gives visitors a chance to explore the island at a leisurely pace and often have iconic spots all to themselves.
2. Local Traditions: Christmas in Santorini is celebrated with traditional Greek Orthodox customs. You’ll find local homes adorned with boats instead of trees, a nod to Greece’s maritime heritage. Midnight church services, carol singing, and the sweet aroma of ‘melomakarona’ (honey cookies) and ‘kourabiedes’ (sugar-dusted almond cookies) fill the air.
3. Cooler Weather: While you won’t be sunbathing, the weather is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C. It’s perfect for exploring the island, hiking, or simply enjoying the caldera views with a hot drink.
4. Seasonal Deals: Many hotels and restaurants close during the winter, but those that remain open often offer attractive deals. It’s a great time to experience luxury accommodations at a fraction of their peak season prices.
5. Festive Events: Some local communities organise events, from Christmas markets to musical performances. The main square in Fira, for instance, is often beautifully decorated and becomes a hub of festive activities.
6. Authentic Experience: With fewer tourists, you get a genuine feel of the island’s way of life. It’s an excellent opportunity to mingle with locals, learn about their traditions, and enjoy the serene beauty of Santorini without the usual distractions.
New Year
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Santorini offers a unique blend of traditional Greek festivities, serene winter beauty, and the island’s enchanting atmosphere. While Santorini during this time is a stark contrast to its summer vibrancy, it provides an authentic and intimate experience. Here’s what you can expect when ringing in the New Year in Santorini:
1. Local Traditions: New Year’s Eve in Santorini is deeply rooted in Greek Orthodox customs. One of the highlights is the cutting of the ‘Vasilopita’ (St. Basil’s cake) at midnight or on New Year’s Day. This cake contains a hidden coin, and the person who finds it in their slice is believed to have good luck for the entire year.
2. Festive Atmosphere: The main squares, especially in Fira, are adorned with festive lights and decorations. Locals gather to celebrate, with music, dancing, and fireworks lighting up the night sky as the clock strikes midnight.
3. Church Services: Many locals attend a special church service on New Year’s Eve, thanking God for the past year and seeking blessings for the year ahead. The ringing of church bells at midnight adds a spiritual touch to the celebrations.
4. Quiet Beauty: With fewer tourists around, the island exudes a calm and peaceful charm. The iconic caldera views, devoid of summer crowds, offer a tranquil setting to reflect on the year gone by and the promise of the new one.
5. Seasonal Delights: Apart from ‘Vasilopita’, other traditional treats like ‘melomakarona’ and ‘kourabiedes’ are commonly enjoyed. Many restaurants offer special New Year’s Eve menus, blending traditional Greek dishes with festive favourites.
6. Warm Hospitality: The locals, known for their warmth and hospitality, are even more welcoming during this time. With the island less commercial, there’s a genuine sense of community and shared celebration.
7. Accommodation: While many hotels close for the winter, those that remain open often have special New Year packages. These can include gala dinners, live music, and other festive activities.
8. Exploring the Island: New Year’s Day is perfect for a leisurely exploration of Santorini. Whether it’s a hike, a visit to a local winery, or simply wandering through the quiet streets of Oia or Fira, the island offers a serene backdrop to start the year.
Halloween
Halloween isn’t a traditional holiday in Greece, and Santorini, like much of the country, doesn’t celebrate it with the same fervor as countries like the United States or the UK. However, with the increasing influence of Western culture and the presence of international visitors, some modern adaptations of Halloween have started to appear. Here’s what you might expect if you find yourself in Santorini around Halloween:
1. Limited Celebrations: While Halloween isn’t a traditional Greek holiday, some bars, clubs, and restaurants, especially those catering to tourists, might host Halloween-themed parties or events. You might find special cocktails, decorations, and music for the occasion.
2. Costumes and Decor: Some establishments, especially in the more touristy areas like Fira and Oia, might decorate with pumpkins, cobwebs, and other Halloween-themed items. Staff might don costumes, and visitors are often encouraged to dress up as well.
3. Traditional Greek Fall Festivities: While Halloween as we know it isn’t widely celebrated, the fall season brings its own set of Greek traditions and religious observances. You might stumble upon local festivals or feasts dedicated to saints, which can be a unique cultural experience.
4. Quiet Atmosphere: October marks the end of the tourist season in Santorini. The island is much quieter, with fewer crowds, making it a serene time to visit. The weather is cooler, but you can still enjoy the breathtaking views and sunsets.
5. Children’s Activities: While trick-or-treating isn’t a common practice, some international or private schools and communities might organise Halloween parties or events for children, where they can dress up and partake in games and activities.
Easter
Easter is the most significant religious celebration in Greece, and Santorini, with its deep-rooted Orthodox Christian traditions, is no exception. The island comes alive with rituals, ceremonies, and festivities, making it a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Here’s what you can expect when celebrating Easter in Santorini:
1. Holy Week: The week leading up to Easter Sunday is filled with religious ceremonies and rituals. Each day has its significance, with churches and monasteries holding special services.
2. Good Friday: On this day, a somber atmosphere prevails. In the evening, every church on the island holds a procession with the “Epitaphios” (a symbolic bier of Christ). The streets are adorned with flowers, and locals carry candles, following the procession in reverence.
3. Holy Saturday: This is a day of anticipation. At midnight, the Resurrection is celebrated with church bells ringing joyously. People gather in churches holding candles, and when “Christos Anesti” (Christ has risen) is proclaimed, they light their candles. This “Holy Light” is considered a blessing and is taken home by many.
4. Easter Sunday: This day is marked by joyous celebrations. Families gather to feast, with lamb being the traditional dish. The atmosphere is festive, with music, dancing, and merriment.
5. Fireworks: In certain villages, like Pyrgos, a spectacular fireworks display takes place on Holy Saturday, symbolizing the battle between good and evil.
6. Pot Throwing: In some areas, there’s a tradition of smashing pots on the streets on Holy Saturday, symbolizing the breaking of the seals on Christ’s tomb.
7. Unique Santorinian Traditions: In the village of Emporio, there’s a tradition called “Efthous” where two groups of young men run and try to grab a pot filled with goodies.
8. Feast: Easter is also about indulging in culinary delights. Apart from the lamb, special Easter cookies called “koulourakia” and a sweet Easter bread called “tsoureki” are enjoyed. Red-dyed eggs, symbolizing the blood of Christ, are also a staple.
9. Decorations: Streets, homes, and churches are adorned with flowers, especially white and purple ones, symbolising purity and mourning respectively.
10. Easter in Oia: The picturesque village of Oia offers a unique Easter experience with its beautiful churches and stunning caldera views, making the religious processions even more enchanting.
11. Local Crafts: During this period, local artisans often showcase Easter-themed crafts and decorations. It’s a good time to pick up some unique souvenirs.
12. Travel Tips: Easter is a popular time to visit Santorini. It’s advisable to book accommodations and transport in advance. Also, while it’s a festive time, it’s essential to be respectful of the religious ceremonies and traditions.
Valentines Day
Santorini is often hailed as one of the most romantic destinations in the world. While summer is the peak tourist season, visiting Santorini on Valentine’s Day in February offers a unique, quieter, and equally romantic experience. Here’s what you can expect and some suggestions for a Valentine’s Day in Santorini:
1. Intimate Atmosphere: February is off-peak, meaning fewer tourists. The quieter ambiance makes for a more intimate and personal experience, perfect for couples seeking solitude.
2. Sunset in Oia: Even in winter, the sunsets in Oia are breathtaking. Bundle up with your loved one and watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange.
3. Romantic Dinners: Many restaurants offer special Valentine’s Day menus. Enjoy a candlelit dinner with a view of the caldera, savouring local Greek dishes and wines.
4. Wine Tasting: Santorini is renowned for its unique volcanic wines. Visit a local winery, cozy up in the tasting room, and sample the island’s famous Assyrtiko wine.
5. Spa Day: Some luxury hotels remain open in February and offer spa services. Indulge in a couple’s massage or a relaxing spa treatment.
6. Strolls in Fira: Wander the cobbled streets of Fira, the island’s capital. The cooler weather is perfect for exploring without the summer crowds.
7. Traditional Villages: Visit villages like Pyrgos or Megalochori for a more authentic experience. These villages are less touristy and offer a glimpse into the island’s traditional life.
8. Accommodation: While some hotels close for the winter, many remain open, often offering discounted rates. Opt for a room with a caldera view or even a private hot tub or pool.
9. Photography: The winter light, combined with fewer people, is ideal for capturing stunning photographs of the island’s iconic architecture and landscapes.
10. Local Celebrations: While Valentine’s Day isn’t traditionally celebrated in Greece as fervently as in some other countries, the influence of global culture means you’ll find local businesses and hotels embracing the romantic spirit of the day.
11. Warm Clothing: Remember, February is winter in Santorini. While it’s milder than many European destinations, it’s essential to pack warm clothing, especially for the evenings.
12. Island Hopping: If you’re in Santorini around Valentine’s Day, consider taking a short ferry ride to explore nearby islands like Ios or Naxos, adding another layer to your romantic getaway.