Naming in Greece still follows old traditions where the first son will be named after the paternal grandfather, this of course resulting in a small variety of names used throughout the country. So far, many of the people I have met here are named either Nicolas, George, Dimitri, and Andreas. These names come from saints and here in Greece they celebrate the saints Name Day, so if you share the name of the saint you are included in this celebration. (Its kind of like another birthday). You usually join together for a meal and give gifts to the person who shares the saints name. Since they are also celebrating the saint it is common to visit a local church named for that same saint. Some churches put on celebrations, offering food and drink while smaller ones light candles or make some sort of offering.
Yesterday, december 6, was Nicolas's Name Day. You typically say "χρόνια πολλά" which means a wish to live many years (you also say this on birthdays). We had family and friends come to the house where we ate dinner, drank wine, and enjoyed each others company. Nicolas received many gifts: a coloring set, sketch board, clothes, two pair of puma tennis shoes...they are so cute and much more! Overall, a very enjoyable evening!
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