The 15th of August - uniting Greece in joy

Dekapedávgoustos, literally the 15th of August, is one of the most important holidays in Greece. It marks thepeak of the summer holidays and is deeply rooted in the Greek tradition. It’s also referred to as the ‘Easter of Summer’ and is a national bank holiday. As it’s customary to take vacation days around the 15th, Greece is transformed into a big (church and beach) feast, enjoyed by locals and tourists together.

Celebrated throughout the centuries, the Assumption of Mary was initially a strictly religious holiday. According to the Orthodox Church, The Virgin Mary “fell asleep” after which Jesus Christ carried her (soul) to heaven. Although the day is about the passing and Assumption of Mother Mary, it’s not a day of mourning but filled with joy and celebrations across the country, because she was reunited with her son. Churches all over the country, until the most humble chapel, commemorate and honor Mother Mary in various ways! In some parts of Greece, the Church is decorating and carrying the epitaph of Mary around the main streets as a tribute. In others, a big feast is organized in her name. Tinos is one of the most well-known celebrations as it’s the religious heart of Greece and the location of the holiest cathedral of the Virgin Mary (the Panagia Evangelistria church), which has become an international place of pilgrimage.

In recent years, however, the celebrations gained a deeper cultural experience and these gatherings are now anticipated by many, regardless of their religious beliefs. No matter where in Greece you are, there will be some form of celebration nearby! If you’re looking for a unique experience, which you’ll carry with you for years to come, join a panigiri. A panigiri is a centuries-old feast, starting with the end of the church’s last service. The tables are set in the village’s square, the amount of food is double what’s needed and it’s served with an abundance of wine and beer. People from different villages and visitors are more than welcome to join and enjoy the live music and all the dancing.

A significant factor in the shift in celebrations is the ‘name-day’ phenomenon. On the 15th of August, Maria & Marios, Despina, and Panagiota & Panagiotis are amongst the most well-known names to be celebrated. These celebrations add to the cultural importance. If you have someone celebrating their name day in your friends’ circle, you can spend the day at a beach bar, a yacht club, or in a restaurant. It’s not uncommon for these venues to have a special event organized.

So if you find yourself in Greece around and during the 15th of August, make sure to join the festivities and enjoy what this day has to offer!