by Eleni from Athens asks Santa a playful question about elf nail art, learns about the Acropolis, and hears about Greece’s Kalanda carols
Dear Santa, my name is Eleni and I am nine years old. I live in Athens, Greece, where my yiayia says half the city is older than counting itself.
Dear Eleni, your yiayia is being modest. Athens is older than several of my own workshop traditions, and I say that with real respect.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is a little silly. Do any of your elves paint tiny Christmas designs on their nails? My cousin does snowflakes every December and I think it is the best idea ever.
A few do, Eleni, mostly the ones who work in the wrapping department and like their hands to match the ribbons. Tiny snowflakes are a popular choice this year, so your cousin has excellent taste.
My second question is about the Acropolis. My teacher says it has stood on that hill for thousands of years. Is it really that old?
It is, Eleni. The Acropolis and its temples, including the Parthenon, were built around the 5th century BC, and I fly a slow, careful loop around that hill every year out of sheer respect. Lit up at night above the Aegean Sea, it looks like the city is wearing a very old, very dignified crown.
My third question is about carols. My yiayia takes me door to door singing Kalanda before Christmas, and she says an important saint brings gifts on New Year’s Day here instead of Christmas Eve. Who is that?
That is Agios Vasilis, Saint Basil, a wise and generous bishop from long ago, and Greek children traditionally receive their gifts from him on New Year’s Day rather than Christmas. Singing Kalanda door to door is one of my favorite Greek customs, small voices carrying good wishes from house to house, which is really what this whole season is meant to be about.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Eleni Papadopoulos
Athens, Greece
P.S. Will you tell Agios Vasilis my yiayia says hello?
I will, Eleni. He always asks about her cooking specifically.
