The holidays have a way of slowing us down—of pulling us back toward the things that matter most. Family. Memory. Tradition. The small rituals that quietly shape who we are and how we stay connected, even when we’re far from where we started.
This year, I wanted to share something special with you: a Greek-inspired Holiday Handbook created as a gift from the Greek America Foundation. It’s a celebration of the season as it’s lived and remembered across the Greek world—through stories, music, recipes, customs, and the moments that bring us together around tables, doorways, and candlelight.
Inside, you’ll find familiar traditions and perhaps a few you’ve never tried before. The sound of children singing the kalánda. The symbolism of the karaváki. The warmth of kourabiedes and melomakarona fresh from the oven. The meaning behind vasilopita, Christopsomo, and the rituals that carry us from Christmas through Epiphany. These are not traditions meant to sit on a shelf—they are meant to be shared, passed on, and lived.
This handbook was created with that spirit in mind. I hope you’ll download it, spend time with it, and share it freely with family and friends. Forward it. Print a page or two. Try a recipe. Sing a song. Start a new tradition of your own. That’s how culture stays alive—not by being preserved quietly, but by being practiced with intention.
At the Greek America Foundation, our work is rooted in the belief that Greek values—philotimo, generosity, hospitality, service, and a deep sense of community—still matter in the world. Projects like this handbook exist because of a community that believes the same. Your engagement, encouragement, and support make it possible for us to continue creating meaningful ways to connect heritage with impact.
From my home to yours, I wish you a holiday season filled with warmth, health, joy, and moments of genuine connection.
Καλά Χριστούγεννα και Καλή Χρονιά.
May the new year bring light, kindness, and good fortune to you and your loved ones.
Gregory C. Pappas
Founder & President
Greek America Foundation
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE HANDBOOK
P.S. If you ever find yourself wondering how projects like this come to life—and how they continue year after year—membership in the Greek America Foundation is at the heart of it. Becoming a member is a simple, meaningful way to stand behind this work and help ensure that Greek culture, values, and service remain vibrant and alive for generations to come. Click here to join today.