What is the meaning of panigyria?
Panigyria are the traditional festivities that the principals of towns, islands and mountainous villages organise for religious and social reasons. During the summer time, a lot of panigyria take place all around Greece.
How long do panigyria last?
Most panigyria last two days. They start the eve of a Saint’s feast day. They last until the end of the Saint’s nameday.
The biggest summer panigyria
It is worth mentioning that some big summer feast days, such as. Saint Paul, Saint Peter, Saint Marina, Saint Ilias, Saint Paraskevi, Saint Pelagia, Saint Magdalini, Saint Fanourios are indeed important feast days of the summer season. Panigyria take place during these name days. The biggest and most impressive summer panigyri is organised for the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, August 15. It starts some days before August 15 and finishes some days after August 15. This day is considered the Easter of the summer. It would be a great idea to take part in a panigyri some days before and after the Dekapentavgoustos (August 15). Anywhere in Greece, the Dormition of Panagia is celebrated with great dignity and the local panigyria are all well – organised.
What happens during the panigyria?
The main reason why panigyria take place is religious. People want to honor the Saints. Therefore, they go to the church of the Saints that have their feast day to pray. The panigyri takes place in the area around the church. You will find benches with a great variety of products. Merchants set up their benches and sell products such as, sheets, pillows, towels, socks, bags, shoes, jewelry and toys for kids. Moreover, you can buy local products and drinks. For instance, olive oil, olives, honey, oregano, tea and wine. Apart from these products, you will also try delicious food served on big tables. Locals roast meat, cook traditional food, make Greek salads and traditional sweets. They eat with their families, relatives, friends and visitors. People eat, drink red or white wine, sing and dance local dances all together.
Conclusion
All in all, panigyria are religious and social fairs during which you can enjoy tasy food and drink good wine. You can also listen to live music and dance Greek dances. Summer time is the suitable period when you can attend the biggest traditional panigyria.
