Living traditions

The Fires of Sotira

Sotira, Florina

Field photographFire of Sotira

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Introduction

Sotira lights its Christmas bonfire on 23 December, often early enough for visitors to continue to the larger fires of Florina.

A village bonfire custom close to Florina, accompanied by music, circular dancing and a communal winter gathering.

Fire and dancing before midnight

Residents prepare a large pile of wood in the days before the event. On the evening of 23 December, people gather nearby as the village prepares for the lighting.

Gathering wood to light up the bonfire at Sotira for Christmas, near Florina, Macedonia — Bonfire preparations

A man chopping wood for the bonfire at Sotira, using a chainsaw, near Florina, Macedonia — Chopping wood

The fire is often lit before midnight, allowing visitors to continue towards Florina. Traditional circular dancing, food and wine accompany the gathering.

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