Name Day

In the Greek Orthodox tradition, you are (typically) named and baptized after a saint. Part of why 90% of Greek people all have the same name. 📆 Throughout the year, Greeks honor these specific saints on specific days by celebrating them and those named after them in what is called a “Name Day.” 🎉

Might sound minor, but in Greece, cities with churches that are also dedicated to those saints shut down in commemoration – with festivals that fill the streets!

In fact… Name Days are such a big deal that they are celebrated even more seriously than birthdays! 🤯

CTC’s very own Partner & VP of Differentiation 💁🏽‍♀️ nominated this Greek tradition for a CTC Celebrates highlight because (you guessed it)… she has a Name Day!

On August 15th, the Greek Orthodox Church commemorates the Blessed Virgin Mary or “Panagia” in Greek (sound familiar?) by gathering with friends & family to share traditional Greek food and LOTS of dancing!

Below is the official dance of Greece in traditional garments from the area of Kalamata (yep, like the olive).

And check out Panagiota’s own family getting down in her sister’s backyard. That’s her mom leading the dance and niece honing her superpowers on the dance floor. 💛

Along with many other cities, Panagiota’s hometown (Long Beach, CA) will be hosting a Greek festival over Labor Day weekend. Check online to find opportunities near you to get an authentic bite of Greece and its culture. 🧿