Festive Greece: A calendar of tradition is met in Kea!

Easter is one of the best times of the year in Greece for a couple of reasons. First of all even if you are not a devout Christian you can’t help but be moved by the ceremonies and the way life begins again on Easter Sunday after winter and 40 days of fasting.

Easter finds every year Kea blooming and green. With spring scents, fragrant homemade recipes that you stimulate your nose as you wander around the whitewashed alleys, but also with its traditions as a small place, this season the island is at its best. The Holy Week, but especially on Holy Thursday, enjoy the local customs, taste the traditional recipes, drink local wine and walk in the countryside and the ancient paths.

On Great Thursday, in Ioulida, Korissia and Vourkari, we decorate the so – called “Epitaph” with fragrant flowers from the gardens of the island.

On Great Friday, there will be a procession of the Epitaph early in the afternoon in Vourkari and later on in the evening the Epitaph will be found in Ioulida and Korissia with special customs & events in every location.

On Great Saturday, we welcome, late in the evening, in the churches, the Holy Light that comes to the island by helicopter and say “Christos Anesti” to each other, tapping red eggs and watching the fireworks.

On Easter Sunday, except for the Agapi liturgy that is performed in the church in the morning, we burn Judas in Ioulida, Vourkari and Otzias, either on the slopes of the hills or in the boats. And of course we enjoy the Easter table with all the delicacies. Meat, cheese, spices and herbs, sweets and so much more that you can get with you leaving the beautiful island.

Easter here is always special, with Greek aromas and Cycladic colors. The authentic flavors and traditions of this small place will offer you insuperable memories.