About Greece Independence Day
Greek Independence Day is a national holiday celebrated every March 25, commemorating the start of the Greek War of Independence in 1821, when Greeks rose up against the Ottoman Empire that had ruled the region since 1453. By tradition the revolt is said to have been declared when Bishop Germanos of Patras raised the banner of revolution at the Monastery of Agia Lavra in the Peloponnese — a stirring scene that historians regard as a later legend, though March 25 remains the official anniversary.
The date was chosen deliberately to coincide with the Greek Orthodox Feast of the Annunciation, when the Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would bear the son of God, giving the day a double religious and national meaning. The rallying cry of the revolution, "Freedom or Death" (Eleftheria i Thanatos), still appears on banners every year. After a long and brutal war, Greece won recognition of its independence in 1830.
Greek Independence Day is marked across Greece and by the Greek diaspora worldwide with a large military parade in Athens, student and school parades, church services for the Annunciation, flags and traditional dress. The holiday falls on the same date every year, March 25, so the live countdown above always points to the next one. Add it to your own page to count down to Greece's national day.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Thursday, March 25, 2027next |
| 2028 | Saturday, March 25, 2028 |
| 2029 | Sunday, March 25, 2029 |
| 2030 | Monday, March 25, 2030 |
| 2031 | Tuesday, March 25, 2031 |
FAQ
When is Greek Independence Day?
Greek Independence Day is celebrated every year on March 25, the anniversary of the start of the 1821 War of Independence.
Why is Greek Independence Day important?
It marks the beginning of the 1821 uprising against Ottoman rule that led to Greek independence, and coincides with the Orthodox Feast of the Annunciation.
How is Greek Independence Day celebrated?
With a military parade in Athens, school and student parades nationwide, church services for the Annunciation, flags and traditional costumes.
What is the motto of the Greek Revolution?
The rallying cry was "Freedom or Death" (Eleftheria i Thanatos), which remains a national motto displayed every March 25.