If you happen to be in Greece and the doorbell excitedly starts to ring early on December 31, you might find little kids with triangles ready to sing carols when you open the door. When the kids finish the carols they will wish you a Happy New Year. Some people give them sweets but most give them coins – a one or 2-euro coin will do!

The song they sing says:

“First of the month and first day of the year, my tall Christmas tree, and the beginning of the new year, Church with the holy throne. In the beginning, when Christ appeared as a holy saint to walk upon the earth and to welcome us with his heart. Santa Claus is coming – landlords do you realize that – From Caeserea…”