NEW YORK. The grand parade on 5th Avenue, with which the Hellenism of New York commemorates the anniversary of the Greek Revolution of 1821, was completed in a climate of emotion and pride.
The festivities kicked off on Friday, April 12th, with a flag-raising ceremony at Bowling Green.
Despite heavy rain, the ceremony showcased the dedication of the Greek community. NYC Mayor Eric Adams joined the crowd, demonstrating his support. The Evzones, the elite unit of Greece's Presidential Guard, and the famed Mantzaros Philharmonic band of Corfu marched with pride, setting the tone for the weekend.
From Flag Raising to Grand Parade
The celebration continued on Saturday, April 13th, with the elegant Greek Independence Day Parade Gala at the New York Hilton Hotel in Midtown. Hosted by the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York, the gala provided a platform for distinguished guests to gather and celebrate.
The culmination of the three-day event arrived on Sunday, April 14th, with the majestic parade on Fifth Avenue, stretching from 64th to 79th Streets. Thousands of people lined the streets, waving flags and cheering for the participants.
"In the course of our long history, Hellenism has experienced both triumphs and tragedies; it is our duty, in memory of our ancestors, to remember, to honour, to persist," stated Greek Defence Minister Dendias during the gala, reminding everyone of the significance of the occasion.
Earlier, a praise service was held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, presided over by Archbishop Elpidophoros and in the presence of, among others, members of the Greek Parliament who arrived in New York to attend the important event.
They are the leader of the opposition and president of SYRIZA, Stefanos Kasselakis, the MEP of the New Democracy, Vangelis Meimarakis, the MPs Filippos Fortoma and Nina Kasimatis, Theophilos Xanthopoulos, Milena Apostolaki, the Greek Ambassador in Washington, Ekaterini Nasika, the Consul General of New York, Dinos Konstantinos and the candidate of the European Parliament of the New Democracy, Giorgos Avtia.
The previous evening, they all attended the Teletharchs’ reception, which was “overshadowed” by the hasty departure of the Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias, due to the events in Israel.
