New Year Celebrations In Rhodes Island

By Author: Frank Jaeger
Total Articles: 117
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The Island of Rhodes celebrates New Year (also known as Protohronia) and St. Basil's day on January 1st, every year. Two special celebrations on the same day make it more meaningful for the people of Rhodes. This day, being a symbol of joy, luck and ecstasy is long awaited by people of all ages. Kids enjoy it the most as they gets gifts from St. Basil. Many traditions and ceremonies are a part of New Year celebrations in Rhodes.

New Year in Rhodes Island is a sign of the distinguishing cultural expressions of the region. No matter it is town, village or beach, celebrations are held all over the island. In order to express joy and excitement, firework shows are celebrated all over the island. Preparation for this magnificent event starts beforehand. Planning New Year during Rhodes Holidays is no doubt a wonderful idea.

Vasilis:

When it comes to Rhodes Island, there is always something interesting every year. Here you can enjoy fabulous moments and make outstanding memories of your Rhodes Holidays. People greets the fresh year with utmost delight. According to a tradition, any boy or girl named Vasilis receives ...
... gifts and wishes. Churches and monasteries named after Vasilis plan special celebrations.

New Year's Eve Cake - Vassilopita:

Also referred to as the Feast of Saint Basil, cutting New Year's Eve Cake is one of the oldest traditions in Rhodes Island, Greece. A coin is placed inside the cake. The head of the house cuts the cake and gives slices to all members of the family. Whoever gets the slice having coin is believed to have a lucky year. So do not forget to cut the New Year's Eve Cake with your family during Rhodes Holidays.

Gambling:

Greeks believe that lots of good fortune is associated with New Year. Therefore, people consider it lucky to gamble. No matter they win or lose, they keep on gambling all day long. Following the tradition, they gather around a table covered with green felt and play cards on it. Card playing and rolling the dice have become more like a custom in Rhodes.

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

Parties and other celebrations:
In order to greet the New Year, many hotels and restaurants arrange special New Year parties. Similarly, celebrations take place in bars and cafes. Special gala evenings and musical nights are arranged. These parties start at mid night and last till the morning.

New Year Carols:
New Year carols are a must in Rhodes. Kids visit houses in their neighborhood while singing Kalanda and greeting them with New Year wishes. The home owners give small gifts or money to those kids.

Greetings and Gifts:
New Year gifts play a vital role in New Year celebrations. People use to greet their dear ones and exchange gifts with them. There are a number of New Year eve songs, which people sing and dedicate to their near and dear ones on this occasion.
Regardless of age, race or gender; the Island of Rhodes opens its doors to visitors from all parts of the world. It provides great entertainment opportunities especially on the New Year. If you want to enjoy the Greek New Year then do not delay; plan your upcoming Rhodes Holidays and celebrate New Year on the land of Rhodes.

For More Information Visit http://www.rhodes.ws/rhodes-island-greece