Tsiknopempti: Greece’s Smoky Thursday and How to Celebrate It at Home

As February arrives and Carnival season kicks into high gear, Greece gets ready for one of its most delicious and lively traditions—Tsiknopempti. Also known as “Smoky Thursday” or “Barbecue Thursday,” this is the day when the irresistible smell of grilled meat fills the air, and friends and family gather to feast before the fasting period of Lent begins. But what exactly is Tsiknopempti, and how can you bring this festive tradition into your own home? Let’s explore.

The Tradition of Tsiknopempti

Tsiknopempti falls on the second-to-last Thursday before Lent in the Greek Orthodox calendar. It’s a day meant for enjoyment, where Greeks fire up their grills and enjoy generous portions of meat before the restrictions of fasting take hold. The name itself comes from the Greek words “tsikna” (the smoky aroma of grilled meat) and “Pempti” (Thursday), perfectly capturing the essence of the day.

More than just an excuse to enjoy a barbecue, Tsiknopempti is part of Apokries, the Greek Carnival season—a time of joy, music, and celebration. It’s common to see people in costumes, dancing, and making the most of the festive atmosphere.

How to Celebrate Tsiknopempti at Home

Even if you’re not in Greece, you can easily bring the spirit of Tsiknopempti to your home with a simple yet delicious barbecue gathering. Invite your friends and family, fire up the grill, and enjoy a meal filled with Greek flavors.

Enhance your feast with authentic flavors by using Santorini spices for Barbecue, Greek salad, gyros souvlaki, and tzatziki, adding a touch of the island’s character to your dishes. Drizzle Santorini honey over desserts or grilled meats for a sweet contrast, and pair your meal with exceptional Santorini wines to complete the experience.

What to Cook

• Grilled Meats: Souvlaki, lamb chops, pork skewers, sausages, and ribs are must-haves.
• Side Dishes: Serve your meats with Greek salad, tzatziki, roasted potatoes, crispy tomato fritters or fava.
• Something Sweet: Treat your guests to loukoumades (Santorini honey puffs) or baklava to round off the meal.

Pairing with Santorini Wines

No Tsiknopempti meal is complete without the perfect wine pairing. Santorini’s world-famous wines add an extra layer of enjoyment to the celebration:

• Assyrtiko: A crisp, citrusy white wine that enhances the flavors of grilled pork and lamb.
• Mavrotragano or Mandilaria: Bold red wines that complement richer meats beautifully.

Make It a Tradition!

Tsiknopempti is about more than just food—it’s a celebration of togetherness, laughter, and good times. Whether you’re in Greece or halfway around the world, you can embrace this festive tradition by hosting your own barbecue, playing some Greek music, and raising a glass to great company.

So gather your loved ones, prepare a feast, open a bottle of Santorini wine, and bring the joy of Tsiknopempti to your home!

Kali Orexi! (Bon Appétit!)