Montreal’s Greek community filled the streets of Park Extension with pride and celebration on Sunday, March 23, 2025, as the city’s annual Greek Independence Day parade brought the weekend’s festivities to a rousing close.
The event honors March 25, Greek Independence Day, commemorating the 1821 uprising that ended nearly 400 years of Ottoman rule—a holiday cherished by Greeks worldwide.
The parade, captured by CityNews photographer Erin Seize, showcased Montrealers of all ages celebrating their heritage. “I have such a great time coming here every year,” said Naomi Kyriakopoulou of the Messinian Brotherhood of Canada. “It’s a beautiful tradition, and I love keeping it alive. I’ve made close friends here—it’s always a joy.”
For many, the day was a tribute to the sacrifices of their ancestors. “It’s about a little island in Greece where the Messinians were the first to break free from the Turks,” explained parade participant Christina Koubarakos. Victoria Kokkinakis added, “We’re here to cheer for those who fought for us.”
Despite a chilly breeze, the sun shone on the crowd, lifting spirits. “I’m really excited to do the parade today,” said Kosta Karvelas, standing alongside Fotini Kokkinakis. “It’s a nice day—might be cold, but the sun’s out.” Fotini chimed in, “It’s for everyone; anyone can come watch. It’s fun, and you get to have a good time.”
The parade featured striking traditional attire, like the Tsolia costume worn by Emmanuel Orfanos. “My skirt, the Fustanella, has 400 folds—one for each year of slavery under the Ottomans,” he said. “Living in Canada, where we can share and preserve our culture, is what makes us Canadian.”
Amalia Markakis, a Greek teacher at Socrates-Demosthene School with 45 years of experience, reflected on the flag’s symbolism. “The nine lines stand for the word Eleftheria—freedom,” she said. “The white stripes mean ‘freedom or death,’ and the cross reflects our faith.”
The Greek flag—a blue and white design with nine stripes and a cross—fluttered proudly throughout the event. “There’s so much patriotism, passion, and pride,” Orfanos noted.
Chris Adamopoulous, executive director of the Hellenic Community of Greater Montreal, offered a broader message: “Work hard but enjoy life too. Take care of your families and each other—that’s what it’s all about.”
From intricate costumes to heartfelt stories, Montreal’s Greek Independence parade was a vibrant testament to resilience, community, and the joy of cultural freedom.