You may or may not be familiar with the concept of Name Days, depending on your religion. In certain branches of Christianity, such as Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, there are certain days dedicated to saints and martyrs. The celebration, often called the “Feast Day,” is essentially hosted by those who hold that name.
For example, on August 15th we commemorate the death of the Virgin Mary. In Greece, the Virgin Mary is known as the “Panagia,” meaning “all Holy,” as well as the “Theotokos,” meaning “Mother of God.” This Feast Day honors many names, such as Mary and Maria deriving from the Virgin Mary, Panagiotis, Panos, and Giota deriving from Panagia. As such, August 15th is the name day for all people in Greece (and other Christians who celebrate name days) with these names. And, honestly, 1/3 of the Greek population celebrates their name day on August 15th...
In Greece, name days are typically a bigger celebration than birthdays. In many villages, the person with the name day is expected to have an “open house” feast for acquaintances, friends, and family to wish them well and have something to eat or drink. In bigger cities like Athens, the “host” is expected to treat their friends and family to a meal, in addition to taking snacks or food to their own workplace to treat their colleagues!
While name days are a big deal, they are often seen as a more public celebration, as many people often have the same names, and therefore the same day of celebration. Birthdays, on the other hand, are a more intimate celebration. And while you are not as expected to treat your colleagues at work, some people still choose to include others in their birthday celebrations.
In more modern times, celebrating birthdays has definitely gained popularity all throughout Greece. After all, we all love having a reason to get together with friends and celebrate!
Whether it is a name day or a birthday in Greece, we have the same expression for well-wishes: Χρόνια Πολλά (pron., Chronia Polla), which means “Many Years!”
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