New Year's Eve in Cyprus

History and Traditions:

New Year's Eve in Cyprus, known as "Protochronia," is a blend of modern celebrations and age-old traditions. It coincides with the feast day of Saint Basil the Great, a fourth-century Greek bishop known for his kindness and contribution to the liturgy of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Many Cypriots still observe customs rooted in their Greek heritage.

One traditional practice is cutting the Vasilopita (Saint Basil's bread or cake), which contains a hidden coin. The person who receives the slice with the coin is said to be blessed with good luck for the year ahead. Moreover, children often receive small gifts on New Year's Day, which is attributed to Agios Vasilis (Saint Basil), akin to Santa Claus traditions elsewhere.

Celebrations:

New Year's Eve celebrations in Cyprus typically involve family gatherings, feasts, and festive music. Many Cypriots prepare a special dinner that includes traditional dishes like roast pork or lamb, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. Homes are decorated, and families come together to celebrate.

In urban areas like Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos, public squares host concerts and events leading up to midnight fireworks displays that light up the night sky. Nightclubs, bars, and hotels offer special entertainment programs with live music and dancing.

Current Practices:

On this day, people also engage in other customary practices such as exchanging gifts among family members and friends. They may attend church services where special hymns for Saint Basil are sung.

Across towns and villages, locals venture out into public spaces despite any chilly weather to enjoy communal festivities. It's also common for people to stay up late into the night celebrating at home or at parties where they count down to midnight together before making toasts to welcome in the New Year.