One of the most important holidays in Greece is “Ohi Day,” celebrated on October 28th. This day commemorates Greece’s bold refusal in 1940 to submit to Fascist Italy’s ultimatum, which demanded the entry of Italian forces onto Greek territory during World War II. The resolute “No” (“Ohi”) marked Greece’s entry into the war and became a symbol of national pride and resistance against oppression.
Today, the anniversary is honored with parades, patriotic events, and cultural activities across the country, highlighting the great sacrifices and bravery of the Greek people during the conflict. October 28th is a day of remembrance and glory for Greece and also presents an excellent opportunity for a short getaway. The commemoration of this historic day blends seamlessly with the beauty of Greece’s picturesque landscapes. For those seeking to celebrate in a scenic setting, the Greek islands provide the perfect backdrop. Below, we present five Greek islands that offer both a festive atmosphere and unique experiences for visitors.
Syros: History and Culture in the Heart of the Cyclades
Syros is an ideal destination for those who want to combine the celebration of October 28th with culture and history. During World War II, Syros was occupied by Italian and later German forces. The island, particularly its capital Ermoupoli, suffered greatly under the German occupation due to severe food shortages, and many locals resisted the occupying forces. Despite these hardships, the spirit of resistance remained strong among the residents.
The anniversary is marked with parades and events where the island’s role in resisting Axis powers is remembered. Ermoupoli, with its neoclassical architecture, becomes the backdrop for these events, offering a sense of both history and grandeur. After attending the parade, visitors can explore historical sites such as the Apollon Theater or the town hall, immersing themselves in the island’s rich cultural legacy.
Festive atmosphere: Parade in Ermoupoli that commemorates the island’s resilience during the harsh occupation years of World War II.
Highlights: Apollon Theater, Ermoupolis Town Hall, Ano Syros.
Corfu: Liveliness and Musical Parades
Corfu, known for its long-standing musical traditions, faced occupation by Italian forces after Greece entered World War II. The island became a strategic military point for the Axis powers due to its position in the Ionian Sea. After the Italian armistice in 1943, German forces took over, and Corfu’s Jewish population suffered tragic losses during the Nazi occupation. Despite these difficult times, the people of Corfu remained defiant, engaging in acts of resistance and providing support to the Allies.
The celebrations of October 28th in Corfu are marked by parades featuring the famous Philharmonic Orchestra, whose performances add a unique and solemn tone to the events. The island’s historic sites, including the Old Fortress and the Venetian-influenced architecture of Corfu Town, provide a powerful backdrop for the commemoration of these wartime struggles.
Festive atmosphere: Parades accompanied by the historic Philharmonic Orchestra, which reflect both Corfu’s cultural richness and the island’s role during the war.
Highlights: Old Fortress, Pontikonisi, Monastery of Paleokastritsa.
Rhodes: History and Multiculturalism
Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, was under Italian control even before World War II began, as part of Italy’s occupation of the region since 1912. The island was an important Axis base during the war due to its proximity to the Middle East and North Africa. Italian forces initially controlled Rhodes, but after Italy surrendered in 1943, German troops swiftly took over, leading to significant hardships for the local population, including the deportation of the island’s Jewish community.
The October 28th celebrations in Rhodes take on special significance given the island’s long history of foreign occupations and its residents’ enduring resilience. The parade in the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, serves as a reminder of Rhodes’ historical importance and the resistance efforts during the war. Visitors can explore the impressive Palace of the Grand Master, which stands as a symbol of the island’s rich and tumultuous history.
Festive atmosphere: Historic parade through the Old Town, commemorating Rhodes’ strategic role and the resilience of its people during the occupation.
Highlights: Palace of the Grand Master, Old Town, Acropolis of Lindos.
Chios: World War II and Resistance Memory
Chios played a significant role in the resistance against Axis forces during World War II. After being occupied by Italian forces, the island became a hotbed of resistance activity. Chios’ proximity to Turkey made it a critical point for the exchange of information and supplies between the Greek resistance and the Allies. Many locals were involved in sabotage operations against the occupying forces and provided shelter to Allied soldiers and intelligence agents.
During the October 28th celebrations, Chios honors its war-time heroes and the strong spirit of defiance that defined the island during the occupation. The island’s historical importance is reflected in the parades and events that focus on the sacrifices made by the local population. After attending the festivities, visitors can explore the Mastic Villages and the Chios Museum to gain deeper insight into the island’s historical and cultural significance.
Festive atmosphere: Parades and events that highlight the island’s central role in the resistance during World War II, honoring the bravery of the locals.
Highlights: Mastic Villages, Chios Museum, Nea Moni.
Naxos: The Real Spirit of Greece
Naxos, like many other islands in the Cyclades, was occupied by Italian and later German forces during World War II. The people of Naxos actively resisted the Axis occupation through various means, including guerrilla warfare and sabotage operations. Many Naxiots participated in the broader Greek resistance movement, contributing to the fight for liberation. The hardships endured by the locals and their courage in the face of occupation are commemorated on October 28th.
The celebrations in Naxos are deeply rooted in tradition, with parades taking place in the main town (Chora) and surrounding villages. The sense of community and pride is strong, as local schools and organizations take part in the commemoration. After the parade, visitors can explore the island’s archaeological sites, such as the iconic Portara and the Temple of Demeter, to further appreciate the historical depth of Naxos.
Festive atmosphere: Traditional parades in Chora and villages that pay tribute to Naxos’ contribution to the national resistance during World War II.
Highlights: Portara, Temple of Demeter, Archaeological Museum of Naxos.
These celebrations of October 28th, on the Greek islands, blot history and culture with the beauty of Greek nature. Each island has a special place in the events of World War II, and this is one reason why annual festivities are yet another kind of opportunity given to visitors for getting closer to that history and to getting involved in the local culture and landscape. Be it livelier and more musical in Corfu or subdued and traditional in Naxos, the Greek islands provide an unforgettable setting in which to honor the resistance and bravery of Greece during the war.