International Student, Evangelia Filippidi, shares her Christmas traditions
Christmas break has always been a very special and important time to me and my family. Growing up in a Greek and Christian Orthodox household, the birth of Jesus retained its significance throughout my childhood, and has now become the centre of my form of celebrating Christmas as a young adult. I also continue to embrace the Greek traditions of my upbringing during this season, by baking our traditional desserts such as melomakárona (honey cookies) and kourambiédes (butter and almond cookies), watching classic Christmas films with my family and friends, as well as sharing my culture with my foreign friends at university.
Additionally, I enjoy travelling during this time of the year, as I am interested in experiencing Christmas through a different cultural lens. For instance, last Christmas I visited Vienna, Austria. I had a magnificent time attending service at a Catholic church and lighting a candle, walking around the beautifully decorated city, and enhancing my knowledge in history by exploring the local museums.
However, I would say that my favourite place to be for the holidays is with my loving family and my adorable dog. New Year’s Eve, specifically, has been the highlight of every year, because we all spend time together, cook delicious meals and count backwards when it’s almost midnight.
I am very grateful to have grown up in such a loving and energetic environment, in which the Christmas spirit is present every year! My childhood and Greek traditions have allowed me to understand the true meaning of Christmas. Love, family, connection, friendship, kindness and the birth of Jesus Christ will always be in the heart of my family during this wonderful season, but also a part of my future as I am gradually entering adulthood and becoming more independent.
I hope everyone enjoys the holidays this year, rests well, and shares the spirit of love and generosity by spending time with their loved ones!
Photo above: My Grandma and I at a New Year’s Eve family gathering, 2009