Christmas is linked all around the world to the ancient tradition of decorating a Christmas tree with countless ornaments and beautiful lights. However, an old traditional custom in Greece’s islands and coastal regions dictates that people should decorate a boat rather than an evergreen tree at Christmastime.

Despite that nowadays almost every Greek city and household does decorate a Christmas tree, there are still a number of public spaces in Greece where one can see a Christmas boat right next to a tree.

The tradition of the ”Karavaki,” which is Greek for ”small boat,” is deeply rooted in the folkways of a country with a symbiotic relationship with the sea.

The most traditional symbol you will find in Greece during the holidays is a small boat decorated with lights, usually placed in the main square of a town and close to the more international Christmas tree.

During the Festive Season all around Greece you will find Christmas boats (karavakia) decorated with lights and ornaments, which are very traditional and symbolic.

Christmas boat tradition returns to Greece

After all, it’s merely a human holiday. And, frankly, the bright lights tampered with his night vision. Whatever—humans can celebrate whatever they want, as long as he isn’t dragged into this all.

hi (hides) i know i KNOW IM REALLY LATE but at LEAST ITS OUT?? ok i have a future plan under the cut + in the notes of the fic, HOWEVER here u go !!! im sorry if its a bit poor, but tomorrow should be better!!

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Karavaki - Christmas Boats

Greece has always been a seafaring nation, especially when you look at the islands.  The sailors worked hard and were at sea for long periods of time, while the women waited on the Greek islands for the return of their fathers, brothers, husbands and sons. The return of loved ones was a cause for celebration, and the women decorated small wooden boats that were placed in front of the door with a small lantern next to it. This was a special way of saying "welcome home" and that since medieval times.

A Karavaki (small boat) next to Christmas trees (x)

Christmas is linked all around the world to the ancient tradition of decorating trees with countless ornaments and beautiful lights. However, an old traditional custom in Greece’s islands and coastal regions dictates that people should decorate a boat rather than an evergreen tree at Christmastime.

Despite that nowadays almost every Greek city and household does decorate a Christmas tree, there are still a number of public spaces in Greece where one can see a Christmas boat right next to a tree.