October 28 commemorates the day in 1940 when Greece refused Italy’s ultimatum. Mussolini’s Italy wanted to occupy part of Greece. By refusing and saying “no”(ochi in Greek) to this ultimatum, Greece marked its entry into the Second World War.
This is an important date in Greece. It’s one of Greece’s two national holidays. And yes, Greece is lucky enough to have two national holidays: October 28 and March 25.
Every October 28, you’ll see many Greek flags blooming along roadsides and on houses. Parades are also organized on this occasion.
The October 28 parade in Athens
In principle, parades are organized all over Greece every year. In Athens, the “Oxi Day” parade is made up of brass bands, clubs, societies and schoolchildren in their thousands marching through the city center. They start along Leoforos Vassilissis Amalias Avenue, past the Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma Square, then down Panepistimiou Street. These parades usually take place in the late morning.
Free admission to museums and sites on October 28
In addition, several sites, monuments and museums are open to the public free of charge , including (but not limited to) :
- the Acropolis
- The ancient Greek agora
- The Roman agora
- Keramikos
- The temple of Zeus
- The Acropolis Museum
- The archaeological museum
- …
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Transport
Most transport services operate on October 28, but with the same frequency as on Sundays and public holidays.
Stores, restaurants and bars
In tourist areas, most stores and restaurants will be open. On the other hand, many businesses will be closing their doors on this day, such as malls and major retailers.