This annual patriotic event celebrates both ancient Greek heritage and the 20th century involvement of Greece during World War II. The main event is a colorful and symbolic parade that takes place in Thessaloniki in the Macedonia region of northern Greece. The bayside city offers an alternative destination to Athens, a young and vibrant place that comes alive during the Ochi festival.
Ochi Day History
The Greeks have many reasons to celebrate their heritage. In Athens the remnants of a sophisticated early civilization still remain. But in the more recent past, October 28, 1940 specifically, General Ioannis Metaxas said “Ochi” to Mussolini. He told the Italian dictator “No!” that they would not accept occupation, fight if they must. And they did.
