1st January: Called Protochronia but also St. Basil's Day, when sprigs of basil are given as traditional gifts.
6th January: Epiphany -crosses are thrown into harbours on the coastline and islands. The young men who dive and retrieve them are believed to receive good luck for the coming year.
February: Carnival in Athens. Masked bands of revellers take to the streets. Maypole dancing.
26th March: Greek Independence Day, military parades.
Clean Monday: First day of lent marked by frugal meals and when house-cleaning and laundry are undertaken with enthusiasm.
Easter: Easter is the most important of the Orthodox holidays. Candlelit processions follow a flower-decked bier on Good Friday. On Holy Saturday a sacred flame is passed to each household to light a lamp of faith. On Sunday, lambs are sacrificed and roasted signifying the commencement of another Spring.
23rd April: St. George's Day- celebrates the patron saint of Greece.
1st May: May Day, or Protomagia (Festival of Spring) marked by processions and flower festivals.
June-September: The Athens Festival -drama, opera, music and dance performances around the city. Dafni Wine Festival with dancing and music.
24th June: Birthday of St. John the Baptist -a festival of feasts and bonfires.
15th August: Assumption Day. Processions and festivals at "Panagia" churches across the city.
28th October: National Ochi ("No") Day, commemorating Greek defiance of the Italian invasion of 1940.
December: Carolling in the days before Christmas and on New Year's Eve.
