Greek Name Day Tradition

The Greek Orthodox Church is the official religion in Greece. In this Christian denomination, saints and martyrs have a certain day dedicated to themselves. If a Greek person is named after one of these people, it is a common gesture to mark the specific day with a name day celebration. 

The Greek Orthodox Church is the official religion in Greece. In this Christian denomination, saints and martyrs have a certain day dedicated to themselves. If a Greek person is named after one of these people, it is a common gesture to mark the specific day with a name day celebration.  

Are you curious about how the name day celebration takes place?

Let’s imagine you are called Simonos, which is a Greek male name. Then you will celebrate your name day on May 10th, which is the day of Saint Simon the Zealot, who was one of the Apostles of Jesus.

On your name day, friends, family and acquaintances will give you a call to wish you “χρονια πολλα,” (hronia polla) which can be translated to “many years” in English. The Greeks use this greeting to express their care for you - they want you to live a long and wealthy life.

Later, it could be an idea to gather some of your loved ones at a local taverna, where the Greek cuisine is in focus. Your Greek friends might also pay you a visit in your home, and they will most often bring a card or a gift. A flower is a popular name day gift, but you could also receive a more personal present. Maybe someone gives a book they think you should read? Many great moments will be waiting for you on May 10th, Simonos – the day of your name day celebration!

Even if your name is not Simonos, I hope you liked the information about the name day tradition in Greece.