Easy Greek Recipes, History of the Olympics and the Greek Alphabet, and More

Traditional Greek Games for Children

Crippling: Children draw a rectangle on the ground, divide it into stairs, and hop through it on one leg, aiming to move a small stone from step to step without errors.

Caps: Two players try to push their cap into a small hole. First one in wins.

Hopscotch: Similar to the American version, children draw squares and toss a rock while hopping through the grid.

Major Greek Celebrations

Easter: The most significant holiday in Greece, celebrated over several weeks. Key traditions include flowered processions on Good Friday, the midnight Holy Light on Saturday, fireworks, and traditional foods like “magiritsa” soup.

National Anniversary (Ohi Day): Celebrated on October 28, this day honors Greece’s refusal to surrender to Italy in WWII, marked by military parades.

The Carnival (Apokries): A festive season with food and dancing leading up to Lent. Major parades happen in Patra, Xanthi, Corfu, and Rethymno.

Must-See Greek Destinations

Santorini: Known for stunning sunsets, white buildings, and volcanic views.

Parthenon, Acropolis: A historic site in Athens and symbol of ancient Greek architecture.

Mykonos: A vibrant island famous for beaches, nightlife, and picturesque town streets.

Delphi Theatre: Once home to the Oracle of Apollo, this ancient theatre had room for 5,000 people.

Mount Athos: A spiritual site with monasteries, open only to male visitors.

Famous Greek Folk Tales for Kids

The Most Beautiful Child: An owl cannot find a child more beautiful than its own, teaching that to a mother, her own child is always the most beautiful.

The Hungry Monk: A monk tries to cook an egg in secret during fasting season, only to blame the devil—who refuses responsibility.

The Tree: A shepherd boy’s hopeful words spark a miracle when a spit used at a feast sprouts into a tree, symbolizing future freedom for Greeks.

Greek Food and Recipes

Greek cuisine features olive oil, vegetables, fish, grains, and meats. Desserts often use honey and nuts. The first cookbook was written in 320 B.C.

Simple Greek Dishes

• Riganatha: Grilled bread with tomatoes, feta, and oregano.

• Lathenia tis Alikis: A homemade Greek pizza using pita or dough.

• Arakas me Anitho: Peas cooked with dill and peppers.

Kid-Friendly Greek Desserts

• Pagoto yia Paithia: No-cook ice cream made from whipped cream and condensed milk.

• Yiaourti me Meli: Greek yogurt with honey and nuts.

• Tahinomelo: A quick spread made from tahini and honey.

Greek Alphabet and Fun Facts

The Greek alphabet has been in use for over 2,700 years and was the first to include vowels. It originated from the Phoenician system.

Fun Facts About Greece

• Greece is the size of Alabama but has more than twice the population.

• Voting is mandatory by law for citizens 18+.

• Nearly 80% of Greece is mountainous.

• Greece enjoys over 250 sunny days a year.

• The Olympic Games started in Greece in 776 B.C.

• Feta cheese is made from goat’s milk and is Greece’s national cheese.

• The phrase “taking the bull by the horns” comes from a Greek myth.

Celebrate the Olympics at Home

You can host a mini Olympic Games at home with crafts, games, and medals for everyone. Plan an opening ceremony with music and team anthems, play indoor or outdoor games like tug of war and obstacle races, and close with medals and a pizza party!

To learn more Greek language and culture interactively, explore Dinolingo, which offers fun and engaging Greek lessons for kids.