Every year, the small and picturesque village of Lakka on Paxos transforms into a festive wonderland, bringing the Christmas spirit to life. This year, the Christmas Village will open its doors on December 13th and 15th, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering three full days of joy, creativity, and celebration.
A Tradition Rooted in Community
The Christmas Village began as a heartfelt initiative by a group of creative local women. They initially organized bazaars in various locations on Paxos, showcasing handmade goods. By 2015, they decided to expand their efforts into something magical for the island’s children who rarely get the chance to visit larger Christmas events in cities.
This December marks the village’s 8th edition, excluding 2020 when it was canceled due to the pandemic. Over the years, the event has grown thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the support of the Paxos Municipality, which provides a small budget ranging from €1,000 to €2,000.
Transforming Lakka
Setting up the Christmas Village is no small feat. It takes a team of 20 people to run the event and requires 10 days to prepare Lakka for the festivities. Volunteers string lights, set up booths, and decorate the village square, transforming it into a magical scene. Afterward, two days of cleanup ensure Lakka is restored to its tranquil beauty.
Local stores contribute electricity, while some offer rooms for performers and volunteers. Despite the hard work and significant costs—covering activities, food, decorations, and Santa’s gifts—the event thrives on community spirit and visitor donations.
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Activities and Highlights
The Christmas Village is packed with activities designed to delight kids and adults alike. This year’s lineup includes:
- -Live Performances: Puppet shows, shadow puppet performances featuring Karagiozis, jugglers, and a local choir singing Christmas carols.
- -Classic Fun: Trampolines, inflatable castles, target games with prizes, face painting, and writing letters to Santa Claus.
- -Creative Crafts: Card-making, ornaments, and holiday-themed crafts.
- -Adventurous Games: Treasure hunts, music games, and even a Survivor-style challenge.
- -Festive Food: Visitors can enjoy souvlakia, loukoumades, hot dogs, popcorn, and warm mulled wine.
The festivities begin with a tree-lighting ceremony on the first evening, complete with fireworks and a performance by the local philharmonic orchestra.
A Celebration for All
The Christmas Village in Lakka is more than just an event—it’s a labor of love that unites the community and creates unforgettable memories. While challenges like limited funding and busy schedules exist, the organizers’ passion and the generosity of visitors keep the magic alive.
For those on Paxos, it’s a chance to experience the joy and warmth of the season without leaving the island. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to see Lakka aglow with holiday cheer, surrounded by the unique charm of Paxos.
Don’t miss this year’s Christmas Village in Lakka—a celebration of community, creativity, and the true spirit of Christmas!
