Solidarity Christmas Village
Description
The "Solidarity Christmas Village," held every December in Katerini, is a unique project blending sustainability, community, and inclusion.
Since 2014, this event has established a traditional German-style Christmas market in subtropical Katerini, offering visitors food, games, concerts, and other performances — with an important twist: Visitors can leave their wallet at home! Instead of paying money, adults are encouraged to bring 2kg of groceries, while children donate books. The collected food supports the “Social Goods Distribution,” aiding those in need, while the books are gifted to local nursery schools. This circular economy model ensures that all donations are put to good use.
A significant focus of the event is the participation of elementary schools. Last year, the Christmas Village hosted 6,000 schoolchildren, making it the largest component of the event. This creates an unforgettable experience for young students, allowing them to immerse themselves in a festive and educational yet sustainable environment without any financial burden. The Christmas Village serves as an alternative school excursion, offering both fun and learning opportunities in a socially inclusive atmosphere.
The event is designed with sustainability at its core, with decorations and materials made entirely from eco-friendly items such as wood, straw, and glass, avoiding one-use plastics.
Local as well as cross-border volunteers play a critical role, helping with everything from setting up the market to working in the event and of course, campaigning with Christmas carols. In return, they gain the opportunity to learn, showcase their traditions, and engage in meaningful, hands-on experiences. Local businesses also contribute by donating goods, emphasizing the event as a collective effort. The "Solidarity Christmas Village" promotes social inclusion, ecological awareness, and volunteerism, making it an exemplary initiative that aligns with the broader goals of the European Solidarity Corps.
Where in Europe am I?
We are located right between Greece’s highest mountain and the endless coastline of the Thermaic Gulf in Katerini, Pieria, with all its rich leisure opportunities nearby. Here, in the span of just one day, one can hike in the lush forests of Mount Olympus, with its captivating trails and mythological allure, and afterwards explore diverse coastal wonders near Plaka, Litohoro, from fine sandy stretches to remote stone and gravel beaches, offering serenity and natural beauty. Katerini's own blue flag beaches in Paralia also provide an easily and quickly accessible getaway by bicycle from Kapnikos Stathmos.
For those interested in the cultural and historical legacy of the region, the Vergina Museum close by Veria is a must-see, preserving the legacy of Philipp II and Alexander the Great through ancient tombs and opulent artifacts. Another obligatory stop are the gravity-defying monasteries of Meteora, where spirituality and architecture harmonize amidst stunning rock formations, as well as the Dion Museum, an important site of Zeus' worship.
For a stunning view and idyllic atmosphere Litohoro Village, the gateway to Mount Olympus, welcomes nature enthusiasts and connects them to picturesque
landscapes, while those, looking for a pulsating urban flair will find everything they long for in Thessaloniki's blend of history and modernity, thriving with dynamic nightlife, museums, and cultural diversity.
Who is organizing it?
Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini (KSK) is an independent organization with roots dating back to 2007 when a citizens' initiative formed to address societal challenges. Since then, our volunteering group consistently initiated and executed projects and volunteering activities to raise awareness and support individuals in need, irrespective of their cultural, ethnic, or religious background.
After the economic hardships during the financial crisis prompted a need for more warehouse space, in 2011 we occupied and restored one of the few abandoned historical venues in our city: the former tobacco research institute Kapnikos Stathmos.
In 2019, recognizing the importance of formalizing our efforts, we established a non-profit organization and named it after the historical venue Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini (KSK). This organization has since been the ground and roof of various initiatives focused on environmental protection, social solidarity, and unconditional human rights, guided by core values such as social responsibility, cooperation, inclusion, and respect for individual rights and diversity.
KSK manages more than 19 diverse projects, from our very first activity named "Giving a day of my summer to the forest" in the summer, which aims to protect forests from wildfires with active involvement from local communities to our Solidarity Christmas Village in the winter. Despite challenges, KSK operates independently of municipal or government support and continues to foster civil engagement, solidarity, volunteering, social inclusion, and environmental protection.
Through our work, we bridge different societal groups and cultural entities, striving to enhance societal cohesion and address pressing challenges such as climate change and economic disparities. Our commitment to shared European values of equality and human rights contributes to peace and solidarity within the European Union.
Who can participate?
If you enjoy teamwork, aren't afraid of hard work, and are eager to make a meaningful contribution, this opportunity is perfect for you! We are seeking motivated individuals who thrive in a team setting and appreciate being part of a diverse community. You should feel at ease interacting with children and be able to create a positive, respectful environment for them.
While spare time is important for building connections with fellow volunteers and the local community, working hours are dedicated to focused, productive tasks. This project involves hands-on activities outside, so you’ll need to be ready for physical work that might leave you a bit dirty or tired, but ultimately very fulfilled.
Respecting rules and boundaries of others and of the organization itself is key to ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone involved!
What are the exact dates of the activity?
This year’s “Solidarity Christmas Village 2024” will last from the 20. November to the 29. December (5 weeks).
What do I do?
The project encompasses a wide range of tasks that are essential not only to the successful organization of the Christmas Village but also to creating a meaningful and rewarding experience for everyone involved. Volunteers play a crucial role in every aspect of the project, from preparation and execution to dismantling and processing of the results.
Tasks include campaigning activities (singing Christmas carols in the city or creating social media content), as well as the physical set-up, maintenance, and eventual dismantling of the Christmas Village. This includes spreading hay, decorating the event spaces, and carefully packing away decorations and materials after the event. During the Christmas Village itself, volunteers take active part in running it, which may involve supervising children, distributing food and beverages in one of the huts, cleaning shared spaces or activities such as games.
Another important part of the project is the collection and management of resources, such as books or excess food, ensuring they are distributed efficiently to those in
need. Throughout the village, volunteers also contribute to the smooth operation of the team by assisting with communal tasks like cleaning, cooking, and setting the table, fostering a cooperative and supportive environment.
When and how many hours do I work?
The working schedule of the volunteering team corresponds to the four different phases of the Solidarity Christmas Village:
1. Set-up (before the village starts)
08:30-09:00 Breakfast
09:00-11:00 Working phase
11:00-11:15 Break
11:30-13:30 Working phase
13:30-14:30 Lunch
14:30-20:00 Free
20:00-21:00 Dinner
2. Schools visiting (First weeks of the village)
08:30-09:00 Breakfast
09:00-13:15 Working phase
13:30-14:30 Lunch
14:30-20:00 Free
20:00-21:00 Dinner
3. All public visiting (Last days of the village)
08:30-09:00 Breakfast
09:00-13:15 Free
13:30-14:30 Lunch
14:30-16:45 Free
16:45-22:00 Working phase (in between dinner among the visitors)
4. Set-up (before the village starts)
08:30-09:00 Breakfast
09:00-11:00 Working phase
11:00-11:15 Break
11:30-13:30 Working phase
13:30-14:30 Lunch
14:30-20:00 Free
20:00-21:00 Dinner
What’s the weather like?
In winter, Katerini experiences cooler and often wet weather, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is more frequent, and overcast skies are common, creating a chillier atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the warm summers. When skies are clear during the day though, temperatures can easily reach above 20° Celsius.
Occasional snowfall can occur, adding a festive touch to the landscape.
Will I need special clothes?
There is no need for special clothes, as we encourage everyone to wear what they feel comfortable in. Since it will be winter and many tasks involve working outside participants should pack warm but practical clothing that can withstand getting dirty or wet.
Furthermore, we strongly suggest to include stable shoes for hiking in the magnificent mountains nearby (and bathing suits for those who are not afraid of cold water at our beaches).
Do I have to take something like bed sheets or my laptop from home?
Everything related to accommodation will be provided by us, meaning that neither towels nor bedsheets have to be taken from home. The same goes for shampoos, soap and other basic goods.
Participants may choose to bring their laptop for their spare time or to use it for some of the tasks, but it is totally optional.
Can I wash my clothes there?
Every volunteer will have free access to our washing machine on site and plenty of space to dry the clothes. The cleaning agents will also be provided by us for free.
Where will I sleep?
All participants are accommodated in our volunteering apartments on the venue. The apartments each feature three spacious bedrooms, each 14m², furnished with two bunk beds and accommodating up to 4 people. The apartments also include a fully equipped kitchen (though not to be used) and a bathroom, while benefitting from central heating, ensuring a warm and comfortable environment.
Renovated in 2022, the apartments now feature new insulation for enhanced energy efficiency and comfort. Additionally, there are recently built sanitary rooms and bathrooms nearby for convenience.
How about sanitary facilities?
The main sanitary facilities, located next to the apartments, were constructed in 2019, reflecting their recent build and contemporary design. In 2022, we added four individual shower rooms, further enhancing convenience and privacy for our users.
There are separate men's and women's bathrooms, each equipped with multiple toilets, along with five shower rooms to ensure availability, even during peak times.
What will I eat and who is preparing the food?
Participants will enjoy a variety of delicious meals during their stay.
To start each morning, breakfast is served buffet-style, offering a range of options such as coffee, cereal, bread, fruits, and more.
For lunch and dinner, a rotating meal plan featuring typical local cuisine is followed, including fish, meat and salads. These meals are prepared on-site by Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini, ensuring their quality and taste while also giving flexibility to adapt to any special dietary needs if necessary.
For the weekends, the team organizes the meal schedule themselves using the ingredients they chose from a wide ranging grocery list.
What happens if I get sick or injured?
If a participant falls ill or any other emergency arises, support is always available. KSK staff, the coordinator and the mentor are always accessible and nearby to contact.
Furthermore, our organization has a network of trained and experienced healthcare professionals on standby to provide assistance when necessary.
I arrived at the airport Thessaloniki. What do I do now?
The journey to KSK from the airport is quite straightforward using public transportation.
Right in front of the airport, there's a bus stop for the X1 Bus, which departs every half hour (please refer to the schedule [https://www.skg-airport.gr/en/category-detailed/ctg_id-37/nd_id-425]). Tickets can be conveniently purchased at the counter for 1.8 € in cash. Travelers take the X1 bus until it reaches the very final stop, known as the “KTEL Makedonia," easily recognizable by its distinctive giant dome building.
Upon arriving at the "Bus station (KTEL) Makedonia," find the "Pieria" Counter, situated to the right from the entrance. Here, tickets to Katerini, costing approximately 6€, can be obtained (more details available [https://ktelpierias.gr/en/thessaloniki-2/]).
The KTEL Bus will transport passengers directly to the KTEL station in Katerini, where the KSK team will be waiting to offer assistance and a warm welcome.
