The second largest of the Greek holidays falls on August 15 and is often called the Summer Easter. On this day, people celebrate the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, Κοίμηση της Θεοτόκου in Greek, commemorating her death, resurrection, and ascension, according to Greek Orthodox tradition.
Panagia, as the Virgin Mary is also called, has a deep historical connection to the modern Greek nation’s struggle for independence. For Greeks, this day is a religious holiday and a national celebration that unites the country in festivity and reverence.
The cities are emptying out
August 15 is a public holiday in Greece, and the entire country comes to a standstill. The capital, Athens, and other cities are emptying as people travel to the villages and the islands to celebrate Panagia. The usually busy streets in central Athens, such as Panepistimiou St. and Patision St. become strikingly quiet and deserted, creating an almost eerie atmosphere in the otherwise vibrant and noisy capital.
The Island of Tinos, a center for pilgrimages
One of the most famous celebrations takes place on the island of Tinos, where thousands of pilgrims gather to honor the Virgin Mary at the central church of Panagia Evangelistria. Many come to fulfill a τάμα/tama, a votive offering for answered prayers. It’s still common to see believers walking on their knees on the red carpet leading up to the Panagia Evangelistria church, in gratitude or hope for divine help.
In Greek churches, one can often see small metal plaques, also called τάμα/tama, hanging on the icons. The plaques are usually embossed with an image showing the purpose of the answered prayer. It could be an eye for restored sight or a ship for rescue from shipwreck.
Folk festivals combining tradition and joy
Just as with other Greek holidays, many πανηγύρια/panigyria, traditional folk festivals, are organized throughout Greece during this time. If you’re in the country at this time of year, you’re likely to come across one of these festivals, either on the mainland or on the islands.
These events combine religious ceremonies with lively festivities, featuring music, dance, and traditional food, where both locals and visitors participate. They provide a unique insight into Greek folk life.
In our article about island-hopping in Greece in the 1980s, you can read about the August 15 celebration on the island of Amorgos [unique visual material].
During the festivities, it’s customary for the church to offer both food and drink. The food is cooked in large cauldrons and served to all participants, while the wine flows abundantly to the tunes of traditional music and dance. The celebration usually lasts from the evening before the holiday until early the next morning.
August 15: an important name day for many
August 15 is also the name day for many Greeks, including those named Maria, Panagiotis, Panagiota, Marios, Despoina, Parthena, etc. Maria is the most popular name in Greece, making the celebration even more extensive.
In Greek culture, name days have traditionally been more important than birthdays, although this trend has changed somewhat in recent decades. So if you have Greek friends or acquaintances who bear any of these names, take the opportunity to congratulate them on August 15 – it will be appreciated!
Greek Holidays: Summer Easter unites an entire country
August 15 offers a unique insight into authentic Greece: from the unexpectedly quiet streets of Athens to the local festivities across the country, and from the devoted pilgrims on Tinos to the joyful participants in panigyria – this day showcases a country where tradition and modernity meet uniquely.
It’s a day when local customs come to life, families gather, and many feel a special connection to the country’s cultural heritage. For visitors, August 15 provides a chance to experience Greece beyond the usual tourist attractions – a country where history, faith, and community intertwine into a rich mosaic of experiences.
Have you experienced the celebration of Panagia on August 15 in Greece? We’d be delighted to hear your stories or see your pictures from this special day. Please share your memories and impressions in the comment section below!
It’s always exciting to hear personal experiences from this unique Greek celebration. Whether it’s a picture from a picturesque village, a story about a memorable panigyri, or just a reflection on the atmosphere of this day – your contribution enriches our shared understanding of this fascinating tradition.
Χρόνια Πολλά σε όλες και όλους! (Happy name day to everyone!)
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