The leadership of the Greek Independence Day Parade 2026 gathered at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America yesterday to receive the blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros.
With renewed unity and energy, the organizing committee is preparing for what promises to be a landmark celebration of Hellenism, marking both Greek and American historical milestones.
The first open public meeting for the Parade will take place on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Stathakion Center (22-51 29th Street, Long Island City, NY). All members of the community are invited to attend and join the effort.
Parade Themes for 2026
• 205th Anniversary of the Hellenic Revolution (1821) and the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution (1776) — the “205/250” theme.
• 250th Anniversary of the birth of Ioannis Kapodistrias, first head of state of independent Greece.
• 200th Anniversary of the Fall of Missolonghi (1826), a heroic chapter of the Greek War of Independence.
• Honoring Philhellenes worldwide, including Haiti, the first nation to recognize Greek independence.
• Celebrating the achievements of Hellenic Americans in diverse professions, in collaboration with professional societies across New York.
Key Dates
• Bowling Green Flag Raising – April 24, 2026
• Parade Gala – April 25, 2026
• Greek Independence Day Parade on Fifth Avenue – April 26, 2026
• Parade Breakfast – April 26, 2026
Cultural & Community Events
Leading up to the Parade, the following events will highlight Greek history and culture:
• Film Premiere: Ioannis Kapodistrias – “The Governor” (November 2025)
• Sail to Freedom Boat Event to the Statue of Liberty (March 25, 2026)
• Original Orchestral Composition by Spiro Cardamis
• Opera “Markos Botsaris” by Pavlos Carrer
• Grand Marshals Cocktail Reception
• Hellenic Dance Competition & Street Fair
• Miss Greek Independence Pageant
• Educational Panel Discussions
• Missolonghi Theater Performance
• Radio Telethon & 77WABC Greek Independence Broadcast
• Additional Federation-organized events are to be announced.
Statement from Parade Chairman Ilias Katsos
“As the President of next year’s Parade, I feel deeply honored by the trust shown to me by the members of the Federation from all sides. I would like to thank our Vice Presidents, George Venizelos, George Parelemos, George Meintasis, and John Stroumbakis, as well as all the fantastic volunteers on our various committees, for everything they do as the diamond backbone of the parade (AXIOI!).
As a united team, we are energized and committed to delivering an unforgettable celebration of Hellenism. The summer meetings of our organizing working committee gave us a strong start toward making the 2026 Greek Independence Day Parade, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026, a milestone year in our shared Greek American history.
The New York Greek Independence Day Parade remains the largest Greek Independence Day parade outside of Greece itself, and the 2026 edition promises to be a milestone event celebrating freedom, unity, and heritage.
Media Contact:
Avgi Atmatzidou Media Relations
