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Greece, as the birthplace of Western civilization, has a long history and civilization that has profoundly influenced the world. Over the immense course of its history, many festivals and celebrations have originated in Greece. Not surprisingly, National Day counts among Greece’s most important annual observances. Known as “OHI DAY” Greece’s National Day is celebrated on October 28th, which is just around the corner! As the country’s most traditional national holiday, “OHI DAY” is enthusiastically celebrated throughout Greece and the Greek diaspora. The remarkable widespread passion that is expressed on National Day is an impressive testament to Greece’s historical resistance to outside aggression.Winston Churchill once said, "Hence we will not say that Greeks fight like heroes,but that heros fight like Greeks!"

In fact, Greece actually has two National Days. The country’s first National Day is also called Independence Day, and is annually observed on March 25th. On that day, Greeks commemorate the country’s first armed uprising against Ottoman Turkish rule, which broke out on the Peloponnesian Peninsula on March 25, 1821. Greek patriots from all walks of life rose in defiance. As a result of their unremitting struggle, Greece won its independence in 1828, and its statehood was formally recognized by Turkey in 1829.

Greece’s second National Day, celebrated yearly on October 28, commemorates the country’s defiant rejection, in 1940, of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini’s demand that Greece allow Italian troops to enter Greece or face annihilation, following an unprovoked attack upon the Greek navy by Italian military forces. That ultimatum was courageously and resolutely rejected by Greece’s then-Prime Minister, who firmly replied: ‘OHI!’ (No!). Italian forces invaded Greece the following day, and were fiercely met and ultimately repelled by vastly outnumbered Greek troops.

As a result, as of 1942, October 28th has been called "OHI DAY", and has officially been designated a national holiday that has thereafter been universally celebrated by Greeks in Greece, Cyprus, and around the world.

On this day, Greek governmental officials hold commemorative ceremonies and activities in numerous cities that pay tribute to the monumental struggles and battles of the past, while also inspiring Greeks today to patriotically continue protecting Greece’s democracy and peace. To commemorate “OHI DAY”, Greeks traditionally display their country’s blue-and-white national flag from their balconies and homes, and participate in spontaneous marches across the country, proudly exclaiming "OHI!".

Apart from its celebratory aspects, “OHI DAY” reflects Greeks’ profound commitment to the concept of Freedom, a trait of the nation’s identity that has existed since ancient times. Among the ancient Greeks, notions of individual freedom, independence, and the right to self-determination were not simply lofty ideals, but rather universally assumed.

Greece is a naturally freedom-loving nation. Its citizens observe the world in their own inimitable way, question in their own way, and have a wholly unique perspective on life that is entirely their own. Hellas House, which serves as a window on Greece in China, perfectly embodies and conveys this unique quality of ‘Greek-ness”, and the healthy and happy lifestyle that goes along with it. On “OHI DAY” in China, an observance that is both solemn and enthusiastic, we celebrate not only Greece’s triumph over struggle, but also all that it is today, and has been since ancient times. It is an opportunity to appreciate the national pride, character, and integrity of a great country to China, an equally ancient and majestic civilization, and the world.

In celebration of "OHI DAY", Hellas House will host a special Greek National Day event on Oct. 28, with Greek Consul General Vassilis Koniakos in attendance. It will be a wonderful opportunity to personally experience the warmth, friendliness, and hospitality of Greece, right here in Shanghai! There will also be a lucky draw (valued at 8,000 yuan). Friends, both new and old, are welcome!