Smashing a plate indicates that no more negative energy is needed, as it already exists. Even a single look from someone with an "evil eye" is believed to curse the person they look at, often unbeknownst to them. Mati is believed to be the evil spirit people spread by looking at someone with jealousy, anger, or judgment. In Greek, the evil eye is called μάτι (mati). The "evil eye" is a belief that dates back to ancient Greece. Plate smashing started as a tradition to rid events of a concept called "the evil eye." Some individuals previously felt that having too much fun would draw in unhealthy energy or the "evil eye." Partake In Plate SmashingĪ smashed plate at a Greek American celebration signifies a successful party. To celebrate this Heritage Month, you can join in by learning more about local events and sharing history with those you love. A common Greek tradition for Greek Independence Day is having children march in a parade dressed in traditional Greek costumes while waving the Greek flag. For example, Boston, New York, and many cities in Florida have Greek Independence Day parades. In the 21st century, Greek Independence Day is celebrated worldwide- including by Greek Americans in the US. Before that, Greece had been occupied by the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years.
Greek people have been celebrating Greek Independence Day since the end of the Greek Revolution in 1921. Greek Independence Day falls within Greek American Heritage Month-on March 25. Nine Ways To Celebrate Greek American Heritage Monthīelow are nine suggestions for celebrating your family and heritage this March. From traditions surrounding food to Greek Orthodox religious traditions, below are nine ways to celebrate Greek American Heritage Month this year. If you or someone in your family has Greek heritage, you may be familiar with famous Greek customs celebrated every March during Greek American Heritage Month.