Discover the Best Time to Visit Santorini, Greece: Red Bull Art of Motion, Vassilopita, and More

Greece, and specifically Santorini, is a dream travel destination for many. With its whitewashed houses, breathtaking views, and fresh Greek cuisine like baklava and stuffed grape leaves, it’s no wonder why. But when’s the best time to visit this picturesque island?

If you’re looking for a true feast for the senses, you should consider visiting Santorini during the winter months. In December, the weather is still mild and there are fewer tourists around. This is the perfect time to taste traditional Greek Christmas cookies like melomakarona and kourabiethes—Greek butter cookies stuffed with nuts.

But the winter season in Santorini is not just about cookies. It’s also a time for celebration and events. One of the most famous events is the Red Bull Art of Motion, a parkour competition that takes place in November. Selected athletes from around the world come to Santorini to showcase their incredible skills and compete in front of a mesmerized audience.

Another winter event that shouldn’t be missed is Vassilopita. This Greek tradition takes place on New Year’s Eve and involves cutting a special cake to bring luck for the upcoming year. The cake is baked with a hidden coin and the person who finds it is believed to have good fortune. Rakomelo, a traditional Greek drink made with honey, spices, and raki, is also popular during this time of year.

As the winter months give way to spring, Santorini comes alive with even more festivals and celebrations. One of the most important events is Easter, which is celebrated in April by the Orthodox Church. The island becomes a hub of activity with religious processions, feasts, and fireworks. The highlight of the celebrations is the whitewashing of the houses in the village of Pyrgos. This tradition symbolizes the renewal and rebirth of the island.

If you’re a fan of wine, then May is the best time to visit Santorini. This is when the grape harvest takes place and you can witness the time-honored tradition of crushing and pressing grapes. You can also taste the fresh grape juice and maybe even try some traditional Greek dishes like caper salad.

So, whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Santorini has something for everyone all year round. From the Red Bull Art of Motion to Vassilopita and the grape harvest, there’s no shortage of events and celebrations to make your visit memorable.

Best Time to Visit Greece Santorini: When to Go

If you’re planning a trip to Greece Santorini, it’s important to know the best time to visit. Santorini is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking views, stunning sunsets, and traditional Greek culture. The weather plays a significant role in determining the ideal time to visit, as it can greatly affect the overall experience.

Spring

The spring season, which falls between March and May, is regarded as one of the best times to visit Greece Santorini. During this time, the temperature is mild, ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring the charming villages, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the island. Springtime is also when Greek Easter takes place, a renowned religious event filled with traditional customs and celebrations.

Summer

Summer, between June and August, is the busiest time for tourism on Santorini. With temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, it’s the perfect time for sunbathing, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife. The island hosts various cultural events and festivals during the summer, including the Red Bull Art of Motion, a renowned freerunning competition that attracts athletes from around the world.

Autumn

The autumn months of September and October are another great time to visit Greece Santorini. The weather is still warm, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Autumn is the harvest season, when you can witness the grape harvest and the production of traditional Greek wine. You can also experience the annual Vassilopita tradition, where a special cake is baked to celebrate the New Year’s Eve.

Winter

If you’re looking for a more quiet and peaceful experience, winter on Santorini is the least crowded time. The temperature can drop to around 10 degrees Celsius, but you can still enjoy various indoor activities. During Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the island is beautifully decorated and filled with festive spirit. Traditional Greek sweets such as kourampiedes and melomakarona dominate the markets during this time, making it a great opportunity to indulge in authentic Greek cuisine.

Overall, the best time to visit Greece Santorini depends on what you’re looking to do and experience. Whether you prefer the fresh spring air, the summer excitement, the autumn harvest, or the cozy winter ambiance, Santorini has something to offer all year round.

Red Bull Art of Motion, Vassilopita, and More

Red Bull Art of Motion

If you’re a fan of extreme sports, then the Red Bull Art of Motion event in Santorini is a must-see. This adrenaline-packed event takes place in September and showcases the best freerunners from around the world. They show off their incredible skills as they jump, flip, and twist their way through the streets and cliffs of Santorini.

Vassilopita

Vassilopita is a Greek tradition that takes place on January 1st. It is a cake made with butter, eggs, and a lucky coin hidden inside. On New Year’s Day, families gather to cut the cake and whoever finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the entire year. This celebration is a fun and delicious way to start the new year.

Other Greek Festivals and Events

• Orthodox Easter: Santorini celebrates Orthodox Easter with a range of traditional events and festivities. The most notable is the Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday, which includes religious processions, feasts, and fireworks.
• Melitinia: This festival takes place in February and is dedicated to the fresh grape harvest. Visitors can enjoy various grape-themed activities, including grape stomping and wine tasting.
• Christmas: December is a magical time to visit Santorini, with houses adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Traditional Greek Christmas treats, such as baklava and kourampiedes (Greek Christmas cookies), can be found throughout the island.
• Motion Out: Hosted in Santorini each spring, Motion Out is a dance festival that showcases the best choreography and performances from around the world. It’s a dream come true for dance enthusiasts.

Whether you’re interested in extreme sports, traditional celebrations, or cultural events, Santorini offers something for everyone. No matter when you visit, there’s always something exciting happening on this beautiful Greek island.

Vassilopita

Vassilopita is a traditional Greek event that takes place on December 31st, also known as New Year’s Eve. It is a special cake, typically made with butter, eggs, sugar, and flour, and often flavored with orange zest or vanilla extract. The cake is baked with a hidden coin inside, and it is said that the person who finds the coin in their slice of cake will have good luck for the coming year.

This event is part of the Greek tradition and is celebrated all over Greece, including Santorini. It is a time for family and friends to come together, enjoy the festivities, and share the Vassilopita cake. The cake is usually cut by the head of the household, and each slice is carefully distributed to the guests.

In addition to the Vassilopita cake, other traditional Greek treats are also served during this time, such as melomakarona and kourampiedes. Melomakarona are honey-soaked cookies made with olive oil, honey, and flour, while kourampiedes are buttery almond cookies covered in powdered sugar. These delicious treats are enjoyed alongside the Vassilopita cake, adding to the festive atmosphere.

This event marks the transition from the old year to the new year and is a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. It is a popular event in Santorini and is celebrated with great enthusiasm by locals and tourists alike. So, if you’re planning a visit to Santorini, December is the best time to experience the Vassilopita event and enjoy the traditional Greek festivities.

Baklava

Baklava is a delicious Greek pastry that is traditionally made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a sweet syrup. It is a popular dessert in Greece and is often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays.

One of the best times to try baklava in Greece is during the holiday season, which typically starts in late December and extends through early January. This is when many Greek households prepare traditional cookies and pastries to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s. Baklava is often included in these festive treats, along with other favorites like kourampiedes and melomakarona.

If you’re visiting Greece in the winter, February is a great time to indulge in some baklava. This is when the annual Vassilopita event takes place, which is a Greek tradition where a cake is baked with a hidden coin inside. The person who finds the coin in their slice of cake is said to have good luck for the year. Baklava is often selected as one of the desserts for this event.

Spring is another wonderful time to enjoy baklava in Greece, especially on the island of Santorini. Santorini is known for its whitewashed houses, breathtaking views, and delicious food. The weather in Santorini starts to warm up in March, making it a pleasant time to explore the island and indulge in some fresh baklava.

Overall, anytime you visit Greece, you’re sure to find baklava as a true celebration of Greek flavors and traditions. Whether it’s during a holiday feast, a local festival, or just a simple afternoon treat, baklava is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for Greek cuisine.

Kourampiedes Kourabiethes—Greek Christmas Butter Cookies

Kourampiedes Kourabiethes, also known as Greek Christmas Butter Cookies, are a traditional and beloved treat enjoyed during the winter holiday season in Greece. These delicious cookies are made with butter, sugar, almonds, and a touch of brandy or rosewater, giving them a rich and fragrant flavor. They are typically shaped into small balls or crescents and then baked until golden and crisp.

One of the best things about Kourampiedes Kourabiethes is their versatility. They can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether it’s with a cup of fresh Greek coffee in the morning or as a sweet treat after dinner. They are also often given as gifts to friends and family, making them a special part of the holiday celebration.

The festival of Vassilopita, which takes place on New Year’s Eve, is a popular event in Greece where Kourampiedes Kourabiethes are traditionally served. This festival celebrates Saint Basil and his role as the gift-giver during the holiday season. A large cake, known as Vassilopita, is baked with a hidden coin, and the person who finds it in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year.

Another important event in Greece is the celebration of Orthodox Easter, which often falls in April. This is a time of great joy and religious significance, and Kourampiedes Kourabiethes are a staple of the festive feast. Many families and communities gather together to share a meal and enjoy these traditional cookies along with other delicious Easter dishes such as melomakarona (honey cookies) and baklava (sweet pastry).

While Kourampiedes Kourabiethes can be enjoyed throughout the year, they are particularly popular during the winter months and in the lead up to Christmas. The cold weather and festive atmosphere in Greece during December make it the perfect time to indulge in these buttery delights.

“Melomakarona”

Melomakarona is a traditional Greek Christmas dessert that is typically enjoyed in December. These cookies are made with a combination of olive oil, flour, honey, and orange zest, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. Melomakarona are often shaped like little ovals and are then soaked in a syrup made of honey, water, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. The syrup adds sweetness and moisture to the cookies, making them incredibly soft and moist.

Melomakarona are a true staple of Greek holiday celebrations, particularly around the Orthodox Christmas and New Year’s. They are often enjoyed alongside other traditional Greek treats like kourampiedes—Greek butter cookies dusted with powdered sugar—and baklava, a rich pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey. These treats are often shared with family and friends during festive gatherings and holiday feasts.

Melomakarona are also closely tied to the grape harvest that takes place in Santorini in late summer and early autumn. The grapes selected during this time are used to make traditional Greek wine, and the celebration of the grape harvest, known as “Vassilopita,” is a significant event on the island. Melomakarona are a delicious way to celebrate this time of year and enjoy the fruits of the harvest.

Selected Greek Celebrations and Events

• Red Bull Art of Motion: A thrilling parkour competition hosted in Santorini in spring, where athletes showcase their skills in a stunning island setting.
• Easter: The Greek Orthodox Easter is a major celebration in Santorini, with processions, feasts, and religious rituals taking place throughout the week.
• Ifestia: This festival, held in Santorini in July, is dedicated to the vineyards and the wine culture of the island, featuring wine tastings, traditional Greek music and dancing, and local delicacies.

Whether you visit Santorini to enjoy the warm weather in summer, witness the whitewashing of the houses in spring, or experience the grape harvest in autumn, there’s always an event or celebration to make your trip a truly memorable one. And if you happen to be there in December, don’t miss the opportunity to try the delicious and festive melomakarona cookies.

THINGS TO DO OUT OF SELECTED DATE RANGE

If you are visiting Santorini in December, you can attend the Festival of the Butter, which is hosted on the 13th of December. This winter festival celebrates the traditional Greek butter cookies and is a time to feast on delicious food and enjoy live music and dancing. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous Rakomelo, a traditional Greek drink made with honey and raki.

Another festival to look forward to is the Feast of Caper, which takes place in February. This festival is all about celebrating the caper, a classic Greek ingredient used in many dishes. Enjoy traditional Greek music and dances while indulging in mouthwatering caper-infused dishes.

If you’re visiting Santorini in spring, don’t miss the Whitewashing of Houses event. This unique tradition involves the locals whitewashing their houses to mark the arrival of spring. It’s a beautiful sight to see the entire town covered in white, and you can even join in and help with the whitewashing if you’d like.

When’s the best time to visit Santorini? The annual Red Bull Art of Motion event is a must-see. This freerunning competition takes place in October and showcases the skills and creativity of athletes from around the world. Watch as they flip and twist their way through the picturesque streets of Santorini.

If you’re visiting Santorini around Easter, make sure to experience the Orthodox Greek Easter celebration. Witness the religious processions, enjoy traditional Greek food such as baklava and melomakarona, and join in the joyful atmosphere as locals and visitors alike celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

During the Greek New Year’s Eve, Vassilopita, a cake with a hidden coin inside, is a tradition. Families gather to cut the cake and whoever finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year. It’s a fun and festive way to ring in the new year.

Whether you visit Santorini in winter, spring, or any other time of the year, there are always exciting events and celebrations to enjoy. Explore the grape-stuffed festivals, try traditional Greek dishes like kourampiedes and melitinia, and soak up the true spirit of Santorini.

Greek Orthodox Easter Holy Week

Greek Orthodox Easter Holy Week is a significant religious event celebrated in Greece and Santorini. The week leading up to Easter is filled with various traditions, customs, and events. It is a time when the Greek Orthodox community comes together to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

When’s Greek Orthodox Easter Holy Week?

Greek Orthodox Easter does not always fall on the same date as Western Easter. It is determined by the position of the full moon following the spring equinox. Therefore, the dates for Greek Orthodox Easter Holy Week vary each year, but it typically occurs between late March and late April.

Traditions and Events

During Holy Week, Greek Orthodox churches in Santorini and other parts of Greece hold daily church services and processions. One of the most notable events is the ritual of Epitaphio, where the funeral bier of Christ is carried through the streets accompanied by chanting and prayers.

• On Holy Thursday, families gather for the evening church service, followed by a meal featuring traditional Greek dishes. Rakomelo, a drink made from honey and raki, is often enjoyed during this time.
• Good Friday is a day of mourning and reflection. In the evening, the symbolic burial of Christ takes place, featuring the procession of the Epitaphio.
• On Holy Saturday, people attend the midnight church service to celebrate the resurrection of Christ. After the service, a traditional feast is held, and dishes like baklava and melomakarona (honey cookies) are served.
• Easter Sunday is a joyous day, and families gather to celebrate with a festive meal. Lamb is often the centerpiece of the table, symbolizing the sacrifice of Christ. Traditional desserts like kourabiethes (Greek butter cookies) and melitinia (cheese-filled pastries) are enjoyed.

The Greek Orthodox Easter Holy Week is a time when the Greek community in Santorini and beyond comes together to celebrate their faith and heritage. It is a unique opportunity to experience the rich traditions and customs of Greek Orthodox culture, and Santorini’s whitewashed churches provide a beautiful backdrop for these religious celebrations.

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is a highly anticipated celebration around the world, and Santorini is no exception. The date of New Year’s Eve is December 31st, and the festivities usually begin in the evening and last well into the early hours of January 1st. It’s a time to bid farewell to the old year and welcome in the new with joy and celebration.

One of the traditional Greek treats enjoyed during New Year’s Eve is Vassilopita, a cake or bread that is baked with a hidden coin inside. The person who finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year. Another popular treat during this time is Kourampiedes, almond cookies covered in powdered sugar.

The weather in Santorini during December can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. However, the island’s charming whitewashed buildings and dreamy landscapes make it a beautiful place to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

In addition to New Year’s Eve, Santorini also hosts the Red Bull Art of Motion, a free-running event that takes place in October. This high-energy event showcases the skills of some of the best athletes in the world as they navigate the island’s unique terrain with impressive acrobatics.

For those looking to experience a traditional Greek celebration, Easter is another important holiday in Santorini. The Orthodox Easter, which follows the Julian calendar, usually falls a week or two after the Western Easter. During this time, visitors can witness the stunning procession of the Epitaphios, enjoy traditional Easter feasts, and partake in the festive spirit of the island.

So whether you’re visiting Santorini in winter, spring, or any other time of the year, there are always exciting events and celebrations to look forward to. From the winter festivities of New Year’s Eve and Vassilopita to the high-flying action of the Red Bull Art of Motion and the rich traditions of Easter, Santorini offers a diverse range of experiences to its visitors.

Caper Harvest

Santorini is not only known for its breathtaking views and stunning sunsets, but also for its unique agricultural traditions. One of the most interesting events that takes place on the island is the Caper Harvest.

The Festival

The Caper Harvest Festival is a celebration of the harvest of capers, which are small green flower buds that are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. This festival is held in late spring, usually in May, when the caper plants are in full bloom.

During the festival, locals and visitors alike come together to pick the capers and participate in various activities related to the harvest. There are often cooking demonstrations, where traditional Greek dishes made with capers are prepared and enjoyed by all.

The Harvest

The harvesting of capers is a delicate process that requires careful hand-picking. The caper plants are grown on the steep cliffs of Santorini, where the unique volcanic soil and climate conditions contribute to the high quality of the capers.

Once the capers are picked, they are sorted and processed. Some are preserved in salt, while others are pickled in vinegar. These capers are then used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sauces, and even cocktails.

Other Events

In addition to the Caper Harvest Festival, Santorini is home to a range of other cultural and religious events throughout the year. Some of these include the Red Bull Art of Motion, a freerunning competition held in October; Vassilopita, a New Year’s feast celebrated in January; and the Whitewashing of the Houses, a traditional event where the houses of the island are painted white to welcome the spring.

Whether you visit Santorini in the spring to witness the caper harvest, in the summer to enjoy the warm Mediterranean weather, or in the winter to experience the Christmas and Easter festivities, you will surely be enchanted by the unique traditions and events that this Greek island has to offer.+

Melitinia

Melitinia is a traditional Greek festival celebrated in late winter, around the date of February 13th. This festival is hosted in Santorini as part of the Red Bull Art of Motion event, which takes place in spring. Melitinia is a true celebration of Greek culture and features various events and activities.

During the Melitinia festival, houses are decorated with fresh grape leaves and whitewashing is done to ensure everything is clean and beautiful for the celebration. The festival is centered around the baking and sharing of traditional Greek cookies, such as melomakarona, kourabiethes, and baklava. These cookies are made with ingredients like honey, butter, and nuts. Another traditional drink that is often enjoyed during the festival is rakomelo, a Greek liqueur made with raki (a grape-based spirit) and honey.

One of the highlights of the Melitinia festival is the Vassilopita feast. Vassilopita is a special cake typically served on New Year’s Day, but it is also enjoyed during the Melitinia festival. The cake contains a hidden coin or other small object, and it is believed that the person who finds it will have good luck for the coming year.

Another important aspect of the Melitinia festival is the Orthodox Greek celebration of Easter. Santorini is known for its unique Easter traditions, including the whitewashing of houses, fireworks, and the burning of an effigy called “Judas.” These traditions are deeply rooted in the Greek Orthodox religion and are a significant part of the Melitinia festival.

Overall, the Melitinia festival offers a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional Greek culture and celebrate the arrival of spring in Santorini. From the delicious cookies and traditional drinks to the unique Easter traditions, there are plenty of reasons to visit Santorini during this time of year.

Whitewashing Houses

Whitewashing houses is a traditional practice in Greece, especially on the island of Santorini. This technique involves coating the exterior of houses with a layer of white paint, creating a beautiful and distinctive look. The best time to witness the whitewashing of houses is in the spring, when the weather is warm and the leaves are beginning to appear on the grape vines.

One of the most significant events for whitewashing houses is Easter, a major celebration in the Orthodox Greek calendar. During this time, the houses are freshly painted to welcome the arrival of spring and the resurrection of Christ. In February, the harvest of the grape takes place, and this is another occasion for whitewashing the houses as a sign of a successful harvest.

Whens the best time to visit Santorini and witness this traditional practice? December brings the Vassilopita festival, which is celebrated in Greece as the New Year’s Eve. During this festival, a delicious cake known as Vassilopita is baked with a hidden coin or trinket inside. This tradition involves cutting the cake at midnight to determine who will have luck and prosperity in the new year. The cake is usually served with a cup of rakomelo, a traditional Greek drink made from raki and honey.

In addition to Vassilopita, there are other festivals and events that take place throughout the year in Santorini. In March, the Red Bull Art of Motion, a freerunning competition, is hosted on the island, attracting athletes from around the world. The Melitinia festival in December is dedicated to the traditional Greek cookies called melitinia, which are made with fresh butter and filled with honey and ground almonds. Another important event is the Feast of St. John the Baptist in June, when bonfires are lit around the island to celebrate the summer solstice.

In conclusion, whitewashing houses is a true art form in Greece, and Santorini is the best place to experience this traditional practice. Whether you visit in the spring, during Easter, or for one of the many festivals throughout the year, witnessing the whitewashed houses against the backdrop of the beautiful Greek landscape is a dream come true.

When’s the best time to visit Santorini?

If you want to experience the true essence of Santorini, you should consider visiting during certain events and celebrations throughout the year. Santorini boasts a range of cultural and traditional festivals that are worth witnessing.

One of the most popular events in Santorini is the Red Bull Art of Motion, a free-running competition hosted on the island. This adrenaline-pumping event showcases the skills of some of the world’s best free-runners, who leap and flip their way through the island’s iconic whitewashed houses and breathtaking landscapes.

Another must-see event is the Vassilopita feast, which takes place on New Year’s Eve. During this celebration, a traditional cake called Vassilopita is prepared, and a coin is hidden inside. The person who finds the coin is said to have good luck for the coming year. It’s a fun and delicious way to ring in the new year!

In winter, Santorini is a quiet and peaceful place to visit. The weather is mild, and the island is less crowded. You can enjoy leisurely walks through the narrow streets, savoring the fresh air and the beauty of the landscape. Wintertime is also an excellent opportunity to taste some traditional Greek sweets, such as kourampiedes and melomakarona, made with butter, honey, and a variety of nuts.

Red Bull Art of Motion

The Red Bull Art of Motion is a freerunning event that takes place in Santorini, Greece. This annual event attracts some of the best athletes in the world who showcase their skills in this unique and challenging environment.

Hosted in early October, the Red Bull Art of Motion is a must-attend event for freerunning enthusiasts. The weather during this time is still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities, but not as hot as the peak summer months. It’s also a great time to visit Santorini as it is less crowded compared to the summer months.

The event takes place in various locations on the island, including the iconic blue-domed houses and narrow streets that Santorini is known for. Athletes perform jaw-dropping stunts, flipping and jumping between rooftops and balconies. The true essence of Santorini is captured in this event, with the whitewashed houses and stunning views as the backdrop.

During the Red Bull Art of Motion, spectators can expect to see some of the best freerunners from around the world compete in different categories. Athletes are selected based on their skills and creativity, making this event a true showcase of the sport. It’s an exhilarating and thrilling experience that shouldn’t be missed!

Santorini in Winter (December to February)

In winter, Santorini takes on a different charm, offering a peaceful and quiet escape from the summer crowds. While the weather may be cooler, there are still plenty of exciting things to do and experience on the island.

If you visit Santorini in December, you’ll have the opportunity to witness traditional Greek celebrations and events. One of the most anticipated events is the Vassilopita celebration, which takes place on New Year’s Eve. During this festive gathering, a special cake called Vassilopita is baked, and a hidden coin is placed inside. The person who finds the coin is said to have good luck for the year ahead.

Another event in December is the Grape Feast, also known as the “Festia.” It marks the end of the grape harvest season and is a time of celebration. Visitors can participate in grape stomping, taste fresh grape juice, and enjoy traditional Greek food and wine.

In February, Santorini hosts the Red Bull Art of Motion event. This freerunning competition attracts athletes from around the world who perform jaw-dropping stunts against the backdrop of Santorini’s stunning landscapes. It’s a must-see event for adrenaline junkies and fans of urban sports.

When it comes to food, winter in Santorini is the perfect time to indulge in traditional Greek delicacies. You can sample authentic dishes such as baklava, kourampiedes (Greek butter cookies), melitinia (cheese-filled cookies), and kourabiethes (Greek almond cookies). Don’t forget to try the local specialty, rakomelo, which is a combination of honey and raki, a traditional Greek spirit.

While some of the island’s accommodations and tourist services may have reduced operating hours in winter, Santorini still offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you want to explore the whitewashed houses of Oia, take a hike along the Caldera Trail, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere, Santorini in winter is a dream destination.

Rakomelo

Rakomelo is a traditional Greek drink that is popular during the winter months. It is made by combining raki, a strong grape-based spirit, with honey and various spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The drink is often heated and served warm, making it the perfect choice to warm up during the chilly Santorini winter.

Rakomelo is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike and is often served at celebrations and special events, such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve. It is also a favorite choice during the Greek Orthodox Easter, which usually falls in April. The sweet and aromatic flavors of Rakomelo make it a delightful accompaniment to traditional Greek desserts such as baklava, melomakarona, and kourabiethes—Greek butter cookies.

Visiting Santorini during the winter months allows you to experience the true essence of the island. While the weather may be cooler and the tourist crowds diminish, there are still plenty of festivities and events to enjoy. One of the highlights is the Red Bull Art of Motion, a freerunning competition held in Santorini every year in October. This unique event showcases the talent and creativity of freerunners from around the world, who perform their daring stunts against the beautiful backdrop of Santorini’s whitewashed buildings and stunning views.

Another event to look forward to is Vassilopita, a Greek New Year’s tradition where a cake with a hidden coin is served at family gatherings. The person who finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year. This celebration takes place on January 1st and is a joyful occasion filled with delicious food, music, and dancing.

Ifestia Festival

The Ifestia Festival is a selected event held on the Greek island of Santorini. It takes place during the spring season and is a traditional celebration that showcases the island’s unique customs and culture. The festival is hosted in the town of Pyrgos and features a range of events and activities for both locals and visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the Ifestia Festival is the whitewashing of the town’s houses. This is a traditional practice in Santorini, where the old houses are painted white to bring a clean and fresh look to the town. During the festival, visitors can witness this tradition and even participate in the whitewashing themselves.

Another popular event during the Ifestia Festival is the Melitinia cookies. These cookies are made for Easter and are a true Santorinian delicacy. They are stuffed with a sweet grape filling and are a must-try for anyone visiting the island during Easter time. The cookies are usually made in the weeks leading up to Easter, and they can be found in local bakeries and shops.

One of the main attractions of the Ifestia Festival is the Red Bull Art of Motion competition. This event brings together the world’s best freerunners and parkour athletes to compete in a series of gravity-defying stunts and tricks. The event is held in an open-air location and showcases the beauty and uniqueness of Santorini as a backdrop.

In addition to these main events, the Ifestia Festival also offers a range of other activities for visitors to enjoy, such as traditional Greek dances, music performances, and local food and drink tastings. Visitors can also explore the island and take part in activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming.

Overall, the Ifestia Festival is a must-visit event for anyone planning a trip to Santorini. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the island’s culture, traditions, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in art, freerunning, or simply want to try some delicious Greek food, the Ifestia Festival has something for everyone.

Fresh Stuffed Grape Leaves

The Greek art of cooking is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients, and one of the standout dishes is fresh stuffed grape leaves. These delicate parcels are filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat, then gently steamed or simmered until tender. The result is a savory and satisfying dish that highlights the natural flavors of the grape leaves.

The best time to enjoy fresh stuffed grape leaves in Greece is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and the grape leaves are at their peak. The leaves are harvested in late spring and early summer, making this the ideal time to visit Greek vineyards and witness the harvest firsthand. This is a truly special experience, as you can learn about the centuries-old tradition of grape leaf cultivation and taste the freshest leaves straight from the vine.

Another popular time to enjoy fresh stuffed grape leaves is during the Easter season. In Greece, Easter is a major celebration, and families gather to share in the festivities. One traditional dish that is often enjoyed during this time is dolmades, or stuffed grape leaves, as they symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.

Whether you visit Greece during the grape harvest or during the Easter celebrations, be sure to sample some fresh stuffed grape leaves. It’s a delicious and authentic taste of Greek cuisine that will transport you to the sunny shores of Santorini, even if you never leave home.