This article explores the non-verbal forms of greeting adopted by the Gagauz. The author has based the research on both her own field material and on the data contained in historiography. It is noted that greetings are a system of customs and traditions, the observance of which is mandatory. Based on the study, it is shown that in the culture of everyday life of the Gagauz people, a special place is given to the tradition of kissing the hands of older relatives. This tradition is part of ethno-etiquette. It is a significant component of family and calendar ceremonies. It is shown that the rules of treatment and greeting reflect the system of kinship, age and social status. The traditional forms of greetings are considered in the article as the basis of ethnopedagogy. They characterize the ethnic system of attitude and values. In conclusion, it is established that such a traditional greeting system existed in many Gagauz villages of Moldova until the 90s of the XX century. With some changes, it continues to persist nowadays.