Is breaking plates a Greek tradition?

Is breaking plates a Greek tradition?

Rather, smashing plates is time-honored tradition you might observe at a Greek restaurant or wedding reception. Origins of the practice are murky, but it may have begun in ancient Greece, and is said to have brought about the idea of kefi, which translates to good spirits and fun.

What do the Greek say when they smash a plate?

The large family gathering ends with the Greek celebratory custom of the breaking of plates. Jack, while clenching the remaining two plates he owns, throws them up in the air and says “Opa!” and lets them break as well.

Why do people in Greece smash their plates?

People of Greek heritage may have a reputation for throwing plates around, but it’s not because they don’t want to do the dishes. Rather, smashing plates is time-honored tradition you might observe at a Greek restaurant or wedding reception. But Greek traditions go far beyond parties and dinnerware.

Is it normal for Greeks to break plates?

Seeing and hearing Greeks breaking plates is a normal as seeing sculptures and statues of the hundreds of Greek gods and goddesses all over the island of Greece. Nevertheless, if you come and think about it, if plate breaking was such a common sight in Greece, then there shouldn’t be any more plates and saucers lefts in the country.

Why do the Greeks break plates to celebrate Kefi?

Simply said, plate breaking is part and parcel of the Greek tradition to celebrate Kefi ‘š the notion that emotion and joy should not be suppressed but expressed.

Why did the Greeks break the plates at a wedding?

But when plates shatter on the floor at a gathering of Greeks — whether it is at a taverna, a wedding, a baptism or an intimate party, smashing those plates is no accident. Breaking plates is done purposely, accompanied by music, in celebration, and you will often hear the word “Opa!” expressed with great joie de vivre when it happens.