Christmas in Greece is like a journey through time, where traditions and customs come alive in the most magical way. Kallikantzari, fires, disguises, and many more, come to life in the present to connect us with the past. Some of the most peculiar customs in various regions of Greece include:

"Kolinda Bampo", the custom of fire in Pella

According to the custom, the residents of the area light fires on the evening of Christmas Eve, December 23rd, shouting "kolinda bampo" which means "they slaughter grandma". The fires are lit so that people can learn about the massacre and protect themselves, as on that evening Herod ordered the slaughter of all male infants up to 2 years old. The fires last until the next day and everyone feels that everything is ready to welcome the light of Jesus' birth.

"Kolinda, kolinda give me bampo's cradle, If you don't give me a cradle, give me your daughter..."

The tradition of the village fountain, Karditsa

The girls, on Christmas morning, go to the nearest fountain "to steal the silent water". That is, the water that does not make a sound, as they do not speak throughout the journey. They anoint the village fountains with butter and honey, with the wish that as the water flows, so does progress in their homes in the new year, and that their lives are as sweet as honey. In fact, they say that whoever arrives first at the fountain will have the greatest luck throughout the year. Then, they throw a bay leaf and three pebbles into the jug, "steal water" and return to their homes again in silence until everyone drinks from the silent water. With the same water, they sprinkle the four corners of the house, while scattering the three pebbles inside the house.

The Momothers of Drama

In the villages of Platanias and Sitagroi in the Drama Prefecture, we encounter the custom of the Momothers, which takes place during the 12-day period of festivities. It is a folk event that originates from Pontian refugees and the etymology of the word is mime or mummer and old man. The protagonists wear animal skins and masks, and if different groups of momothers meet, they must confront each other in a battle where the best one will win and the loser will declare submission.