Kolinta Bampo
On Christmas Eve, Eordaia celebrates the joyous message of the Nativity in a unique way, deeply rooted in tradition. At the heart of the festivities lies the custom of ‘Kolinta Bampo’, linked to the night-time caroling traditions. On the evening of 24December, large bonfires are lit in the village squares, fuelled by wood collected by residents in the days leading up to the celebration. The flames rise high into the night, illuminating smiling faces and filling the air with a warm, festive atmosphere. Crowds gather around the fire, chanting “Kolinta Bampo!”, while dancing, singing, and traditional food turn the night into a genuine community celebration. The fire symbolises purification and the banishment of evil, but above all, it strengthens the sense of belonging to a shared “family” welcoming the birth of Christ. Experience the spirit of this custom in Asvestopetra, Ermakia, Olympiada, and Kardia, where the flames come alive every year.