A coin is traditionally hidden inside Greece's New Year's cake, vasilopita.
Vasilopita is cut around New Year's Day in honor of Saint Basil, whose feast day is celebrated on January 1 in Greek tradition. A coin, called the flouri, is placed inside the cake before baking or inserted afterward, depending on the recipe. The person who finds it is traditionally considered especially fortunate for the coming year.
Families often make a formal cutting sequence. A first slice may be dedicated to Christ, Saint Basil, the household, or a business, followed by slices for family members and guests. The order differs among households and regions, so there is no single universal ceremony.
Vasilopita can be a sweet yeast bread, a cake, or another regional baked preparation. The hidden coin is the defining New Year's feature, not one fixed recipe. Because the coin can be difficult to see, careful serving is important, especially when children are included.