Kolida Babo
A few days before Christmas, on December 23rd, fires are once again lit across Amyntaio, their flames lighting up the winter sky. This is Kolida Babo, an ancient Balkan custom still practiced mainly in Macedonia. According to tradition, the Romans celebrated the winter solstice by lighting fires to ward off evil spirits and welcome the new year. In its Christian interpretation, the flames symbolize the fire lit by shepherds to keep the newborn Christ warm. If you spend Christmas in Amyntaio, you will see how Kolida Babo remains a warm, festive night where locals and visitors gather around the fire to celebrate, dance, and exchange wishes.
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