Neoléa hosted its Santa’s Workshop as part of its school holiday program, offering young children and families an opportunity to engage and connect with Greek cultural traditions through creativity and hands-on activities.
Held on Sunday, December 14, the workshop focused on festive crafts inspired by Greek Christmas customs, with a special emphasis on the tradition of decorating karavakia (boats).
Children learned about the historical and cultural significance of karavakia in Greek celebrations while creating their own decorative pieces, which formed part of a larger karavaki from paper mache, which will be on display in the community hall through the festive season.
The event welcomed families from across the community with children and parents alike enjoying the chance to get creative together. The workshop aimed to promote Greek cultural activities during the school holidays in a fun, accessible and meaningful way.
Chair of Neoléa, Anastasia Mavrides, said the event reflected the committee’s commitment to engaging young people and families through cultural education and shared experiences.
“Santa’s Workshop was about more than just crafts – it was about storytelling, tradition and connection,” Anastasia said.
“By introducing children to the meaning behind Greek Christmas customs like decorating boats, we’re helping keep these traditions alive in a way that is interactive, creative and inclusive for the next generation.”
Neoléa’s school holiday workshops form part of its broader mission to create opportunities for young people and families to engage with Greek culture, language and traditions throughout the year.
“We are so grateful to the Greek community for hosting workshops like this,” a parent said. “They give our children something meaningful to connect with, and they’re a wonderful way for families to spend time together.”
The success of Santa’s Workshop highlighted the strong community interest in cultural programs that bind generations together, with many smiling faces and creative contributions helping to bring the festive display to life.
*Photo credit: Neoléa.
