Traditions in Zakynthos 26th October Saint Dimirtios Day (Αγίου Δημητρίου) Whilst Zakynthos has many traditions, this day for the locals is when several traditions are carried out which have continued from generation to generation. Not only do Zakynthians with the name of Dimirtios, or female version Dimitra celebrate their name but also, many celebrate after waiting patiently for their wine to ferment in their barrels across the Island. For Saint Dimirtios day, is the day they open up their barrels and a chance to taste their favourite nectar. You will often hear the chit chat around the villages and the words “to anixes to krasi sou”, meaning did you open your wine. Of course, when the tasting begins from farmer to farmer a small competition takes place always in good fun, especially at the local coffee shop where you will hear them boasting as to how good “their” wine is and of a taste that compares to none. Obviously, this usually ends in a tasting session throughout the next few months as more barrels are opened. The farmer, who has been voted with best of the lot, takes pride and joy offering a bottle or two as a gift for being praised by their friends. Another tradition that falls on Saint Dimitrios day that I recently found out about, after chatting with my friend, Dionysios Flemotomos (Διονύσιος Φλεμοτόμος), is closer to housework. It is the official day for many Zakynthian women to lay down their rugs that had been carefully cleaned during the summer months, rolled up and put aside waiting for the winter months ahead. Most Zakynthians regard this day the start of winter and with the weather being like it has over the last few days maybe they are not mistaken. As for me, I always celebrate this day with a feast to honour my father in law, Dimirtios and celebrate the name day of my older son. My father in law was a great man and will always be missed. However, one thing that does remain and we are proud of, are the vineyards he so carefully tended to and the technique he passed on, ensuring that our family will always have one of the best local wines. Well, at least some think so, and I am sure that this year’s wine will be more than a conversation maker at our local coffee shop tonight! As I will be busy preparing for the day tomorrow I want to take the opportunity to wish all Xronia Polla and a big “Yamas Dimitri” wherever you maybe
Posted on: Sat, 25 Oct 2014 14:31:50 +0000
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