28 October celebrations 2019

October 28th is a national holiday in Greece related to World War II. This day is also known by Greeks around the world as ‘Oxi Day‘ or ‘No Day’. On October 28th 1940, Greece refused the demands of the Italian army. This refusal was expressed by one word ”Oxi”. The day is celebrated in Greece, Cyprus and Greek communities all over the world. Celebrations, parades, street shows, music and folklore dances are part of the festivities. Here is what you can expect in Greece on this special day.

In Greece, you will see most public buildings and residences decorated with Greek flags. There will be school parades and other festivities in the cities and villages. In Athens, expect parades of marching bands, clubs, societies with folklore dress and school children in their thousands marching around the city centre.

The most important parade takes place at Vassilissis Amalias Avenue, Panepistimiou Street as well as parts of Vassilissis Sofias Avenue from 10 am. There will be road closures surrounding these areas. Large crowds turn up to watch the parade, gathering in Syntagma Square in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

You kids will be impressed by the famous Evzones on Syntagma, also known as Tsoliades, guards of the Unknown Soldier’s Monument in front of the Hellenic Parliament building. If you arrive on time, you will have the opportunity to find a good spot for the parade and also attend the official changing of the guards. In Thessaloniki, an impressive military parade will take place from Megalou Alexandrou Avenue. 

28 October is a national holiday, which means that shops are closed but cafes and food venues will be open. There is free entry into the archaeological sites in Greece including the Acropolis along with the following museums; Acropolis Museum, Byzantine Christian Museum, and the National Archaeological Museum. In Thessaloniki you can visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki free of charge. 

To make the most out of your visit to the Acropolis, we recommend our Private Family Guided Tour to the Acropolis. This tour takes you along the famous monuments of the Acropolis and its foothills in and engaging and storytelling way.

If you want to take your family visit to Athens to a different level, have a look at our Acropolis 3D app. A new guiding tool for families opening a virtual window to the history of ancient Athens.