When people think of Christmas, the image that usually comes to mind is a beautifully decorated tree glowing with lights and ornaments. However, in Greece, the most authentic and meaningful symbol of Christmas is not the tree but a small, beautifully decorated wooden boat.
A Tradition Born from the Sea
For centuries, the idea of placing a Christmas tree inside the home was completely foreign to Greeks. Until the late 19th century, Christmas trees were virtually unknown in Greece, and even then, they were considered a strange imported custom. Instead, Greek households traditionally decorated small wooden boats, often adorned with colorful sails, ribbons, and sweets.
This unique tradition makes perfect sense when you look at Greece’s geography. The country is surrounded by the sea, and for generations, the lives of Greeks were deeply tied to it. Sailors, fishermen, and captains made up a significant part of the population, and many families depended on the sea for their livelihood.
A Symbol of Hope and Safe Return
Life at sea was hard and dangerous. Men often spent long periods away from home, sometimes months at a time. The decorated Christmas boat became a powerful symbol representing hope, prosperity, and the safe return of loved ones.
On Christmas Eve, children would craft small boats using wood and other simple materials. Carrying these boats, they would wander through their neighborhoods singing traditional Christmas carols (kalanda), accompanied by simple musical instruments. As they went door to door, the boats would be filled with candies, sweets, and holiday treats, a Greek version of festive “trick or treating.”
Over time, this custom evolved into one of Greece’s most cherished Christmas traditions.
The Arrival of the Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree made its first appearance in Greece in 1833, when King Otto of Bavaria decorated a tree in his royal palace, following Central European customs. To the local population, the sight was baffling—many Greeks believed their king must have lost his senses.
It wasn’t until after the 1950s that Christmas trees began to gain popularity among Greek households. As Western influences grew, more families adopted the tree, and gradually, it became the dominant Christmas decoration across the country.
Christmas in Greece Today
Today, nearly every Greek home proudly displays a Christmas tree. Yet, the traditional Christmas boat has not been forgotten. In many households, town squares, and coastal villages, you will still find a small wooden boat placed nearby—quietly honoring Greece’s maritime heritage and centuries-old customs.
For travelers visiting Greece during the holiday season, the Christmas boat is a beautiful reminder that traditions here are deeply rooted in history, faith, and the enduring relationship between the Greek people and the sea.
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The Greek Heaven Team