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Last-Minute Shopping Frenzy as Cypriots Prepare to Ring in 2026 with Souvlaki

Published December 31, 2025, 19:16

A shopping frenzy gripped stores and supermarkets just hours before New Year's Eve, as Cypriot consumers rushed to complete their last-minute purchases for the festive table. Demand for meat, particularly souvlaki, lamb and pork, was high, with customers forming queues at butchers. Salads, side dishes, pasta, potatoes and sweets were also popular choices. Citizens expressed their desire to spend New Year's Eve with family and friends, enjoying a rich meal and exchanging gifts. Many preferred to celebrate at home or in restaurants, while others chose to travel to villages or other destinations to welcome the new year. The weather was rainy, but this did not discourage consumers from their shopping. Businesses and municipalities organized festive events to celebrate New Year's Eve. The Mayor of South Nicosia – Idalia, Stavros Hadjigiannis, mentioned that many businesses in the area had already started grilling souvlaki in the morning, offering a traditional meal to their employees and customers. People expressed their wishes for health, happiness and prosperity for 2026. The atmosphere was festive and optimistic, with Cypriots bidding farewell to 2025 with joy and anticipation for the new year.