Celebrating Xmas in Mykonos

E very time we say “Mykonos”, our mind goes to legendary sandy beaches with azure crystal waters, breathtaking sunsets, explosive nightlife, exclusive shopping, 5-star dining and much more that list this rare gem of the Aegean Sea among the top global destination for an exquisite escape. And while Mykonos is a synonym for summer holidays, its beauty doesn’t fade throughout the year, not even for a moment! That is why one should never decline the thought of visiting this magnificent island during winter as well.

And while 2020 is not a travel-friendly year, maybe you should consider renting a luxury villa and spend next Xmas in the Cyclades. Upon your arrival you will be met by shining fishing boats, decorated with small colorful lamps and all sorts of flags. Greeks, especially those living by the sea, choose to celebrate the birth of Christ and the New Year with a taste of sea salt, honoring this way their “fishermen” origins!

Xmas in Mykonos is a fascinating experience. Among the many traditions, with the children singing beautiful carols and the smell of the mouthwatering holiday delicacies filling the air, the most holy celebration is the Epiphany; a moment of devotement, when the priest throws the holy cross in the sea, urging the most daring of the attendees to jump in the freezing water and catch it. According to the tradition, the one who finds it is blessed and will enjoy endless luck for the rest of the year! There are many more sayings like this: if for example, on New Year’s Day, the wind is blowing from the North, it will bring good luck to everybody, while a pigeon landing in the house yard on the same day is considered a good omen. In some of the islands, on the first morning of the New Year, people touch their faces with a piece of iron so that they will be healthy and strong — as if made of iron. Finally, during Xmas and New Year’s celebration you will be often treated by locals to the famous traditional “kourabiedes” (butter biscuits with almonds, dusted with icing sugar), “melomakarona” (baked biscuits dipped in honey syrup) and “diples”(fried dough dipped in honey syrup). Don’t forget taking some with you back home, because they are absolutely irresistible!