Celebrating National Pride in Athens on Oxi Day
Oxi Day, also known as Επέτειος του Όχι—the Anniversary of ‘No’—is a significant public holiday observed on October 28th each year in Greece, Cyprus and by Greek communities worldwide.
The day commemorates the bold decision made in 1940 by Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas, who famously rejected Benito Mussolini’s demand to allow Italian troops to enter Greece. Metaxas’s defiant response, “Alors, c’est la guerre!” or “Then it is war!” in French, the diplomatic language of the era, marked the start of Greece’s involvement in World War II.
The news of Metaxas’s refusal resonated throughout Athens, with citizens taking to the streets chanting “Oxi!” or “No!” in a show of unity and resolve. October 28, 1940, has since been celebrated as a symbol of courage, solidarity, and heroism, cherished by millions of Greeks worldwide.
Oxi Day Parades in Athens
Each year in Athens, the Oxi Day parade features school children, marching bands, societies, and clubs proudly marching through the city center. The parade route traditionally begins on Leoforos Vassilissis Amalias Avenue, passes the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square, and continues up Panepistimiou Street. The parade kicks off at 11:00 a.m., and attendees are advised to arrive by 10:30 a.m. to secure a good viewing spot. Be aware that road closures will affect the areas surrounding the parade route.
GCT Tips for Oxi Day:
- Enjoy complimentary entry to archaeological sites, including the Acropolis (from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.), and explore museums such as the Acropolis Museum (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.), the Byzantine Christian Museum, and the National Archaeological Museum.
- Public transportation will run as usual, though street parades may cause some delays.
- Most restaurants and bars will remain open, particularly those in popular tourist areas.
*Cover Image copyright Nick Bourdaniotis / Bourdo Photography.