Greek Independence Day – March 25, 1821

March 25th is a very special day for Greece. It is both a national holiday and a religious celebration. On this day, Greeks remember the Greek War of Independence and also celebrate the Annunciation of the Theotokos.

Many children mix up March 25th with October 28th, which is Ohi Day. But they are different! March 25th is about Greece fighting for freedom from the Ottoman Empire, while October 28th is about Greece saying “No” to enemy forces in World War II.

What Happened on March 25, 1821?

A long time ago, Greece was under Ottoman rule for nearly 400 years. The Greek people were not free to govern themselves. But on March 25, 1821, brave men and women decided to fight for freedom! This was the start of the Greek War of Independence.

The Greeks had many battles with the Ottomans. It was a very difficult fight, but they never gave up. With help from Greek communities abroad and European supporters, they finally won their freedom, and Greece became an independent country in 1830.

Greek Heroes of 1821

Many brave Greeks helped in the fight for freedom. Here are some of the most famous heroes:

• Theodoros Kolokotronis – A great leader of the Greek army. He helped win important battles, like the capture of Tripoli.
• Manto Mavrogenous – A brave woman who used her own money to help the Greek soldiers. She even fought in battles!
• Laskarina Bouboulina – A fearless woman who had her own ships and helped fight at sea. She was a leader in the battle for Nafplio.
• Georgios Karaiskakis – A clever and strong soldier who led many important battles.
• Athanasios Diakos – A hero who fought bravely but was captured and killed by the Ottomans. He became a symbol of courage.
• Markos Botsaris – A smart and brave leader who helped the Greek forces win important battles.

These heroes, and many others, helped Greece become a free country!

Theodoros Kolokotronis

The Annunciation of the Theotokos

March 25th is also a religious celebration. It is called the Annunciation of the Theotokos (Ευαγγελισμός της Θεοτόκου). On this day, the Angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary that she would give birth to Jesus Christ.

This holiday was chosen as Greece’s official Independence Day in 1838 by King Otto, to connect it with this important religious event.

Also, Happy Name Day to everyone named Ευάγγελος and Ευαγγελία!

How Greeks Celebrate March 25th

On this day, Greeks celebrate with parades, church services, and special events.

• The biggest parade is in Athens, where soldiers march through the streets.
• School parades take place all over Greece, with children dressed in traditional clothes.
• Greek communities around the world also celebrate with music, plays, and other events.
• Families and friends gather to eat a special meal. Since it is a religious day and falls during Lent, many people do not eat meat. Instead, they eat bakaliaros skordalia (fried cod with garlic dip). It’s a delicious tradition!

March 25th is a day to feel proud of Greece and remember the brave people who fought for freedom.

Ζήτω η Ελλάδα! Χρόνια Πολλά σε όλους!