Independence Day in Greece is held annually on March 25th. It is one of the country's most significant public holidays and commemorates Greece's declaration of independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1821, following a long and hard-fought war of independence. The Greek Revolution mobilised global support and drastically shifted the geopolitics of Europe, giving birth to a newly independent and modern Greece.
Celebrations for this momentous day are grand and are conducted both at a civilian and military level throughout Greece. The day typically consists of parades, numerous cultural and religious events, the consumption of traditional food, and expressions of patriotic sentiment. Perhaps the most notable celebration is a grand military parade that takes place in Athens, watched over by dignitaries, the populace, and televized across the nation.
This holiday is also closely linked to religious celebrations in Greece as it coincides with the Greek Orthodox Church's celebration of the Annunciation. Thus, independence and faith intertwine in Greek culture on this day. From historical monuments to the average home, the entirety of Greece lights up in exuberance, painting a joyful tableau of patriotic fervour and religious reverence that speaks of Greece’s illustrious history and rich cultural identity.