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Blog | A day to celebrate and remember

A day to celebrate and remember

Saturday the 28th of October is a very important day for the Greek people. You might be wondering why. On October the 28th marks the day that the Greek prime minister rejected an ultimatum given by the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini during the world war ll. We call this the ''Oxi day'' (occasionally spelled Ochi or Ohi). 

But what happens on a special day like this? 

On Oxi Day, Greece offers many activities for locals and tourist to celebrate the Greek culture. These are some places that offer free admission for the day: 

 

The Oxi Day parade in Athens is a big event with marching bands, clubs, groups, and lots of school kids. They all march through the city centre, starting on Leoforos Vassilissis Amalias Avenue, going past the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square, and then up Panepistimiou Street. The parade starts at 11:00 am, so it's best to get there by 10:30 AM to find a good spot. Be aware that some roads will be closed near these areas. 

 

But what do the Greek people do on Oxi-Day? 

  • They attend parades with marching bands and students. 

  • Wreaths are laid at memorials. 

  • Greek flags are displayed. 

  • Some attend church services. 

  • Families gather for special meals. 

  • Patriotic songs and speeches are broadcast. 

  • Fireworks may light up the night. 

  • Commemorative events and exhibitions may take place. 

 

While many stores and shops will be closed on Oxi Day in Athens, most cafe's and restaurants will remain open. Which means you can still enjoy delicious food and drinks to celebrate a special day like this.  

May this year's Oxi Day be a good one !! 

 

Link: 

https://whyathens.com/events/oxi-day-athens/  

Photo credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Chrischerf  

Written by Aimy Dao – 10/18/2023