Christmas and New Year traditions in Cyprus

Christmas and New Year in Cyprus are a time of warm family traditions, the aroma of baked goods, candles, and the ringing of church bells. Greek Cypriots faithfully honor customs passed down through generations. Perhaps it is thanks to these traditions that the island has preserved its cultural identity and spirit of unity.

• Main Winter Holidays
• Fortune-telling and Christmas Rituals
• Traditions for Children
• The “Kalanta” Custom and Agios Vasilis
• Christmas Sales

Main Winter Holidays

Winter in Cyprus is a series of spiritual and family celebrations. The most important are Christmas (December 25) and Epiphany (January 6). New Year is also celebrated, but without much fanfare — the main focus is on religious dates and church traditions.

On the eve of the holidays, Cypriots decorate their homes, light candles, prepare sweets such as “melomakarona” and “kourabie”, set up a Christmas tree, and always invite relatives and friends. The island is filled with an atmosphere of kindness, calm, and gratitude.

Fortune-telling and Christmas Rituals

Despite their religiosity, Cypriots have preserved folk customs, including fortune-telling during the Christmas season. These are especially popular among young women hoping to learn about love.

• Olive branch fortune-telling. Young women throw an olive branch into the fireplace while asking, “Will (name) love me?”. If the branch jumps on the embers, the answer is positive.
• Purification ritual. On Christmas night, an olive branch is drawn in the air as a cross and then burned in the fireplace — to remove negativity and start the New Year with a clear mind.

The symbolism of the olive is not accidental — the olive tree is considered sacred, a symbol of peace, longevity, and spiritual cleansing.

Traditions for Children

In Cyprus, special attention is paid to children’s customs, as the holidays are meant to bring joy and light.

• “Plumizon” — a ritual held on January 6, Epiphany Day. Children visit grandparents with small performances: reciting poems, singing songs, or showing crafts. In return, the elders give them money and sweets — a sign of blessing and kindness.
• Gifts and the New Year Table. Traditionally, on January 1, Cypriots cut “Vasilopita” — Saint Basil’s cake. A coin is hidden inside, and whoever finds it will have good luck throughout the year.

The “Kalanta” Custom and Agios Vasilis

“Kalanta” is an ancient Epiphany custom: after the liturgy, the priest visits parishioners’ homes, sprinkles them with holy water, and wishes them well for the New Year. Hosts offer sweets or symbolic gifts in return.

The Cypriot Santa Claus is Agios Vasilis (Saint Basil of Caesarea). He is honored as the protector of children and the needy. He brings gifts for New Year, not Christmas, as in most countries.

Christmas Sales

After Christmas, winter sales begin in Cyprus — one of the most anticipated events of the season. Discounts reach 50–70%, and residents hurry to refresh their wardrobe and treat themselves. Shopping is combined with strolls along decorated streets, the scent of mulled wine, and festive music — a true holiday atmosphere.

Conclusion: Christmas and New Year traditions in Cyprus are a remarkable combination of Orthodox rituals, ancient beliefs, and warm family comfort. Here, people celebrate slowly, with soul, and most importantly — together.