Greek vegans plan to take to the streets today to stop the slaughtering of over 2 million lambs and goats during the Easter holiday here.
Vegan Life NGO is organizing the protest for a second year, calling on a peaceful protest and march inAthens’ main Syntagma square at 6:30 p.m.
In Greece, Easter marks a period of rich customs and traditions. Among them: preparation of an Easter feast at which lamb is usually roasted on a spit, signifying the sacrifice of the Lamb of God.
While central to the holiday’s tradition and celebration here, it has become a focal point of protest for Greece’s Vegan community.
While still in its nascent stages here, the Vegan movement is seeing marked growth and appeal largely among younger generations that are more environmentally conscious.
Despite Greece’s long-standing reputation as a meat-loving nation, there has been a significant shift in consumer habits, with an increasing number of shops and restaurants offering plant-based products.
In Athens alone, there are nearly 50 vegan or vegetarian restaurants, with more than 200 eateries providing vegetarian options. This change is not just limited to the capital. Annual vegan festivals are now being held in various Greek cities, including Crete and Thessaloniki, reflecting a broader acceptance and curiosity about the vegan lifestyle.