March 25 is one of Greece’s two national holidays. The second is on October 28, the day of the no vote.
What do we celebrate on March 25 in Greece?
War of Independence begins
The start of the Greek War of Independence is celebrated. Indeed, it was on March 25, 1821 that the Greeks began their insurrection against the Ottoman Empire, which had occupied the country for 400 years. Find out more about the War of Independence and the role of the Philhellenes in this article.
This national holiday is the occasion to bring out the Greek flags, which you’ll see blooming along the roadsides. It is also marked by numerous parades: students, schoolchildren in traditional costumes and military personnel.
Annunciation
March 25 is also a religious holiday. This is the day of the Annunciation for the Orthodox. This day celebrates the moment when the Archangel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary that she would bear the Son of God.
March 25 in Athens
Fashion shows
In Athens, student and schoolchild parades usually begin on March 24 in Syntagma Square.
The military parade (soldiers, tanks) takes place on the morning of the 25th. It begins on avenue Vassilis Sofias, then on Syntagma Square and finally continues on avenue Panepistimiou.
Religious services
Numerous services are held in churches for the Annunciation. This is particularly true of Athens Cathedral, on Mitropoleos Square.
As is often the case in Greece, a culinary tradition is attached to religious tradition. On this day, Greeks are accustomed to eating salted cod, accompanied by a kind of aioli and potatoes. The dish is called Bakaliaros skordalia. It can be enjoyed in taverns. Try it, it’s delicious!
Museums and monuments
Many museums and archaeological sites are closed on March 25. This is the case of :
- the Acropolis
- the Athens Archaeological Museum
- but also the Museum of Byzantine Art
- and the Benaki Museum
- remember to ask about the others …
On the other hand, the Acropolis Museum is open on March 25, and even offersfree admission on this day.
Sophie B.
