In Evros, Greece, it is customary to prepare ‘nine dishes’ for the Christmas Eve table, symbolizing abundance for the coming year. These dishes are believed to represent the travels of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and Joseph during Herod’s persecution. Families leave a portion of each dish under icons for Christ’s blessing. The dishes, which are all fasting-friendly, include items like pie, honey, wine, and various vegetables, each with symbolic meanings related to family well-being and prosperity.