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Serifos, the untamed Cycladic island known for its wild beauty and centuries-old history, adorns itself in its Easter attire, inviting travelers to experience a celebration filled with solemnity, traditions, and authentic flavors. Amid the picturesque alleys of Chora, the tiny chapels, and the vast expanse of the Aegean Sea, Easter on the island takes on a unique character, seamlessly blending the mysticism of Holy Week with the warmth of genuine Cycladic hospitality.

Holy Week in Serifos

Serifos begins to embrace the Easter spirit as early as Holy Monday. In homes across the island, housewives knead fragrant lambrokouloura (Easter cookies) and prepare exquisite Cycladic delicacies that will grace the Easter table. The churches, from Agios Athanasios in Chora to Taxiarchis in Kendarhos, are adorned with fresh, aromatic flowers, creating a truly special atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the locals whitewash the alleys of Chora, renewing the island’s traditional charm and infusing it with a sense of purity and rebirth. This annual ritual, deeply rooted in tradition, ensures that Serifos gleams in all its glory on Resurrection Day.

On Holy Thursday, the service of the Crucifixion deeply moves the faithful, while the women of Serifos dye eggs in red color, using age-old techniques to achieve the perfect hue.

The pinnacle of solemnity arrives on Great Friday as the Epitaphios (the funeral bier of Christ) is carried through the cobblestone alleys of Chora, accompanied by the sound of mandolins and mournful hymns, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. In an atmosphere of deep emotion, both locals and visitors on Serifos immerse themselves in the final moments of the Passion.

One of the most moving moments of Holy Week is the procession of the Epitaphios through Chora’s narrow streets. Two separate processions set out from different points—one from the church of Agios Athanasios in Upper Chora and the other from Lower Chora—following opposite routes. In some years, these two processions have met in Lower Chora, merging in a strikingly poignant moment before continuing together through the picturesque lanes. The journey culminates in Upper Chora, where the flickering candlelight and solemn hymns fill the spring night with awe and reverence.

Resurrection Day with traditional cycladic charm

The Resurrection Day in Serifos is a moment of joy and renewal. Every Holy Saturday, the faithful gather at the church carrying small baskets filled with cheese, koulouria (Easter bread), and red eggs—one for each family member. Across the island, from the small villages to Chora, the proclamation of “Christos Anesti“ (Christ is Risen) is met with a dazzling display of fireworks, illuminating the night sky. The most spectacular celebration unfolds in the square of Evangelistria in Lower Chora, where the festivities reach their peak.

A cherished tradition revived each year at Evangelistria and the Monastery of Taxiarchon is the ritual of “Arate Pylas“ (Lift up your gates). In this symbolic reenactment, the priest, representing Christ, stands before the closed church door and calls out to the chanter inside, who plays the role of the guardian of Hades, refusing to grant Him entry. The phrase “Arate Pylas” is proclaimed three times, and on the final repetition, the priest forcefully pushes the door and enters the church, symbolizing the triumph of light and life over death.

For many Serifians, the Resurrection at the Monastery of Taxiarchon will always be intertwined with the memory of Abbot Archimandrite Makarios, who passed away in 2019. His presence and the deeply spiritual way he conducted the liturgy left a lasting impression, making the Easter experience on Serifos even more profound and extraordinary.

A few hours after the Resurrection service, on the evening of Holy Saturday, Serifos revives the striking custom of the burning of Judas. Locals gather around a large effigy made of wood and cloth, prominently displayed in the village square. At the designated moment, the fire is lit, and the effigy is consumed by flames, symbolizing the punishment of betrayal and the culmination of Holy Week’s spiritual purification. The night comes alive with the crackling of fire, loud bangs, and fireworks, creating a spectacular scene that fills both locals and visitors with excitement and awe.

Easter in Serifos is more than just a series of moments—it is a deeply felt experience. As the bells ring, the alleys gleam with fresh whitewash, candles illuminate the night, and tradition comes alive in every corner of the island.

The Easter Celebration

On Easter Sunday, courtyards and squares come alive with festive cheer. The aroma of lamb slowly roasting on spits and in clay ovens fills the air, while locals and visitors gather as one, celebrating with warmth and joy. Traditional Cycladic dances, such as the balos and syrtaki, set the rhythm of the day, accompanied by the generous flow of local wine.

One of Serifos’ most distinctive Easter customs takes place on Bright Monday—the kounies (swings). Each year, a large wooden swing, adorned with blooming spring flowers, is set up in a different village. Traditionally, young men and women would take turns swinging while singing traditional couplets, honoring age-old customs of courtship and playful romance. To take a turn on the swing, participants would offer a small token—typically a dyed red Easter egg—as payment to the swing operator, adding a charming touch to this beloved tradition.

Traditional Easter recipes of Serifos

The Easter celebration in Serifos is a feast of unique flavors that showcase the island’s rich culinary tradition. The highlight of the Resurrection table is magiritsa, a fragrant and hearty soup made with fresh greens and offal. On Easter Sunday, lamb or goat is slow-roasted in traditional wood-fired ovens or clay pots, preserving its rich flavor and tenderness.A special place on the table is reserved for revithada (chickpea stew), which is slow-cooked in a wood-fired oven, developing a velvety texture and deep, earthy taste.

To complete the feast, tables are adorned with aromatic lambrokouloura (Easter cookies), sprinkled with sesame seeds, and traditional desserts like pastaki Serifou—a simple yet delectable treat made with layers of vanilla and chocolate cream over biscuits.

The reasons why to choose SEAJETS for Easter in Serifos

Easter in Serifos is an experience that blends solemnity, tradition, and Cycladic charm. With SEAJETS‘ modern high-speed vessels, you’ll travel quickly, comfortably, and safely, arriving on the island well-rested and ready to fully embrace the magic of a traditional Cycladic Easter. With excellent service and convenient routes connecting Piraeus to Serifos, you can reach your destination in just about two hours!

Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or solo, SEAJETS ensures a seamless journey, letting you experience the island’s hospitality from the moment you step on board. Book your tickets early and get ready to immerse yourself in the unique Easter traditions of Serifos!