The Christmas season in Cyprus begins early and finishes late. The festive season usually begins with the installation of Christmas trees all over the island as early as mid-November and then continues all the way through to the Epiphany on January 6th.
The first snowfalls in the Troodos Mountains usually occur during December bringing winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding to the mountains. Families also traditionally visit the mountainous winter wonderland so that children can play in the snow.
The traditional 40 days of fasting ends on Christmas Day and families usually gather for a festive feast featuring an abundance of festive dishes, and of course a Cyprus souvla.
Most households stock up on traditional sweets, such as Cypriot shortbreads and honey macaroons. Another Christmas favourite is Avgolemono soup. This hearty chicken soup made with rice, egg, and lemon is very popular, especially at this time of the year.
The festive period is also known as the ‘dangerous days’ and according to folklore, mischievous goblins called ‘kallikantzaroi’ emerge during this time, creating chaos, causing arguments and hiding household items.
I just spent my first ever Xmas in Cyprus & it was wonderful!!! Great reading about it 🙂