Breaking the Plate, A Greek Tradition

The Greek tradition of breaking a plate has many meanings. It is used to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and weddings. This act is normally joined by the party yelling "OPA," as the plate crashes to the ground.

At a wedding, the breaking of a plate happens while the bride, groom and their guests are dancing. This is meant as a way to express kefi, or the spirit of joy. They also break a plate on the doorstep of the newlyweds house to ward off spirits. This only works if it is a controlled break, not a smash. The noise emitted as the plate crashes to the ground, scares away any spirits. Breaking a plate can also be used by two lovers, so no matter how many years pass before they meet again, they will be able to recognize each other by putting the two halves of the plate back together.

Breaking a plate can even be used to gain attention. Sometimes you may find the owner of a Greek restaurant outside smashing a plate on their doorstep to attract customers. Some restaurants even have an area in the store where customers, who wish to, may smash their own plates! Some restaurants do not wish for their customers to smash the plates, especially in Greece. They even go as far as serving their meals on metal plates to prevent it.

Breaking plates is one of the many highlights of Greek tradition that expresses happiness and joy. This tradition is fun and should be done properly. Greeks do not just break plates because they feel like breaking a plate, they do it with love.