Sailing Into The Season: A Greek Twist To Christmas Decorations
- by XpatAthens
- Monday, 16 December 2024
Once upon a time Greeks decorated boats, instead of trees, with festive flair! While this tradition may not be as common nowadays, the memory of adorning sailboats for Christmas still floats on the seas of nostalgia.
Imagine the picturesque coastlines of Greece where communities would gather to decorate their sailboats and fishing boats into dazzling Christmas showpieces. Forget the tinsel and the tree—these folks were all about making a splash with twinkling lights, ornaments, and garlands that turned the seaside into a wonderful wonderland.
Of course, the choice of a sailboat wasn't random—it was a nod to Greece's maritime heritage. These boats weren't just vessels, they were floating symbols of adventure, exploration, and the salty spirit of the sea. The tradition paid tribute to the sailors and seafarers who had charted the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean waters.
In some coastal areas, there's a spirited effort to revive the sailboat tradition as it's not just about decorating a humble sailboat into a festive fiesta; it's about reviving joy, community, and a charm that made the tradition so special for so many generations.