Happy Greek Independence Day!

Today, the 25th March is Greek Independence Day. THIS. IS. GREEEEEECE!!!

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKDwp9TQB68&w=560&h=315]

This marks the successful war of independence waged by the Greek revolutionaries between 1821 and 1832 against the Ottoman Empire. As a result of years of negotiation, Greece was finally recognized as an independent nation in May 1832.

The date coincides with the Greek Orthodox Church’s celebration of the Annunciation to the Theotokos, when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her that she would bear the son of God.

All over the world Hellenic cultural parades are held with participants donning colourful, festive traditional outfits to celebrate Greek music, history, philosophy, religion and of course food.

Throughout Greece, schools hold their annual flag parades, during which schoolchildren march in traditional Greek costumes and carry Greek flags. In Athens there is also an armed forces parade.

This years celebration marks the 193rd anniversary of Greek Independence and the pride of the Greeks grows stronger than ever.

It won’t come as a surprise for you to know that my father was once the chosen flag bearer at his school parade waaaaay back in 1963 when he was just 5 years old. It’s one of those days he says he remembers VERY clearly…apparently because he was flanked by two pretty girls.

Typical.

Happy Greek Independence Day!