Christmas season in Athens.
People congregate in Athens main square to kick off the celebrations.
In these times of austerity Mayor George Kaminis offers hope as he lights the trees.
SOUNDBITE) (Greek) MAYOR OF ATHENS, GEORGE KAMINIS, SAYING:
"In this gray period, in this black shadow of fear and uncertainty, we choose the light."
This time around there is no imported Christmas tree on Syntagma Square. But the low budget Christmas is not interfering with the celebrations.
The dancing is informal.
But the holiday spirit is felt by people of all ages.
(SOUNDBITE) (Greek) UNEMPLOYED MOTHER, ANASTASIA STROUBI, SAYING:
"People want to have a nice warm Christmas. We are trying to ignore our problems as much as we can during the holidays, so we can be able to cope and be able to continue."
The celebrations will continue for two weeks at three main squares in Athens.
Deborah Lutterbeck, Reuters
