If you are living in Greece or have Greek friends, it’s not a matter of if you’ll be invited to a Name Day celebration - it’s a matter of when. While the Name Day Calendar tells you the dates, knowing the social "unwritten rules" is what will turn you from a tourist into a local guest.

1. Do You Need an Invitation? (The Open House Rule)

In Western cultures, showing up at someone's house without an invite is a "no-no." In Greece, on a Name Day, the rules change.

• The "Giortazi" Rule: If someone is "celebrating" (giortazi), they often expect visitors. Close friends and family frequently drop by without a formal invitation.

• Modern Twist: In cities like Athens or Thessaloniki, it is now more common to send a quick text or call first, or the host might book a table at a taverna.

2. Never Show Up Empty-Handed: The Gift Guide

In Greece, the gift is a sign of respect. You don't need to spend a fortune, but you should never arrive with nothing.

• Sweet Treats: The most traditional gift is a box of pasteria (individual cream cakes) or glyka tou tapsiou (baklava, galaktoboureko) from a local bakery.

• Flowers or Plants: A safe and beautiful choice for a home visit.

• Wine or Spirits: A nice bottle of Ouzo, Tsipouro, or a local Greek wine is always appreciated.

• For Close Friends: Personal gifts (books, accessories) are fine, but keep it modest.

3. The "Kerisma" Tradition: Why You Don’t Pay

This is the part that confuses many expats. On a birthday in the US or UK, friends often treat the birthday boy/girl to drinks. In Greece, it is the opposite. The person celebrating the Name Day is the "host." Whether at home or at a cafe, they usually provide the kerisma (the treat). If you go out for dinner, the person whose Name Day it is will often insist on paying the bill for the entire table.

4. What to Say: Beyond "Chronia Polla"

While Chronia Polla (Many Years) is the gold standard, you can impress your friends with these variations:

• "Na chairesai to onoma sou!" (Enjoy your name!) – Very common and personal.

• "Panta evtychismenos!" (Always be happy!) – For male friends.

• "Panta evtychismeni!" (Always be happy!) – For female friends.

• "Kai tou chronou!" (And to next year!) – Said when leaving, wishing them another year of health.

5. What if I Missed the Date?

Don't panic! Greeks are relaxed about Name Day wishes. You have a "grace period" of about 40 days to offer your wishes. If you forget on the day, just call the next day and say:

"Hronia Polla gia hthes!" (Happy Many Years for yesterday!)

Celebrating a Name Day is about connection, community, and the joy of being part of a "parea" (group of friends). Relax, eat the sweets, and remember: it’s not about the gift, it’s about being there.