Greek Independence Day is Greece's national day, celebrated every 25 March (a Wednesday in 2026). It honours the start of the struggle that freed Greece after centuries of Ottoman rule — and it carries a religious meaning too. Here's the history.
See Greece's holiday calendar or the March 2026 calendar.
Why is Greek Independence Day on March 25?
It marks 25 March 1821, the traditional date for the start of the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire, which had ruled Greek lands for nearly 400 years. The uprising is symbolically associated with Bishop Germanos of Patras raising the banner of revolution.
The war continued for years; Greece's independence was formally recognised in 1830. But 25 March 1821 is remembered as the day the revolution began.
A double celebration
25 March is also a major religious feast — the Annunciation (Evangelismos) of the Virgin Mary in the Greek Orthodox Church. The pairing is deliberate and meaningful: the day blends national liberation and religious faith, both central to Greek identity.
How it's celebrated
- Military and school parades, the largest in Athens.
- Flag displays in the blue-and-white national colours.
- Church services for the Annunciation.
- It is a national public holiday in Greece (and widely marked by Greek communities abroad).
Quick answers
Why is Greek Independence Day on March 25? It marks the start of the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule on 25 March 1821.
Why is it also a religious day? 25 March is the Orthodox feast of the Annunciation, so the day combines national and religious significance.
When did Greece actually become independent? The war began in 1821; Greek independence was formally recognised in 1830.
When is Greek Independence Day 2026? Wednesday, 25 March 2026 — it is always 25 March.