Christmas in Greece: Carols

On December 24 young people go door to door in small groups singing Christmas Carols. Called Kalanda, these songs tell the story of the birth of Christ. The singers accompany the carols with music made from folk instruments such as harmonicas, drums, and triangles. Many also carry a small, hollow ship made from cardboard, wood, or metal (see also CHRISTMAS SYMBOLS). Householders toss sweets or coins inside the ship in return for the carolers’ serenade. In Greece the ship is said to represent St. Basil, who sails to Greece to bring presents to children on St. Basil’s Day.