Preparations in Full Swing for the Greek Independence Day Parade 2026

NEW YORK, NY:. – Preparations are well underway for the Greek Independence Day Parade 2026, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026 on New York’s famed Fifth Avenue, the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York announced on August 17.

The parade will mark an extraordinary year of historic anniversaries, cultural events, and community unity.

Throughout August 2025, Chairman Louis Katsos has hosted a series of productive planning meetings at his office with officers, Board members, and active members of the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York focused on shaping the parade’s central themes, forming committees, and organizing a lineup of events leading up to the parade day.

“It’s inspiring to see the professionalism, unity, and enthusiasm of everyone involved,” said Chairman Louis Katsos. “We are building something that will not only honor our heritage, but also connect generations and communities. Soon, we will be engaging all committees directly and warmly invite anyone who wishes to take part, especially through our ‘Three Pillars of Giving’(time, talent , treasure), to join us.”

Public meetings to encourage broader participation will begin in September 2025, opening the door for community members, organizations, and sponsors to get involved.

Parade Themes – Greek Independence Day Parade 2026

This year’s parade will spotlight four major historical milestones:

  1. 205th Anniversary of the Hellenic Revolution and 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, highlighting the historical and ideological bonds between Greece and the United States in various ways through events.
  2. 250th Anniversary of the Birth of Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first Governor of modern Greece.
  3. 200th Anniversary of the Fall of Missolonghi (1826), a pivotal event during the Greek War of Independence.
  4. Honoring Philhellenes from various nations, through their Consul General Representatives in New York, who fought for Greece’s freedom.

Signature Events Leading Up to and During Parade Weekend

According to the Federation, a yearlong calendar of cultural, educational, and celebratory events will accompany the 2026 Parade, to include :

  • The Parade – April 26, 2026
  • Parade Gala – April 25
  • Bowling Green Flag Raising Ceremony – April 24
  • Parade Breakfast – April 26
  • Premiere of “The Governor” (Ioannis Kapodistrias Film) – November 2025
  • Original Orchestral Composition by Spiro Cardamis for the 2026 Parade
  • Opera: Markos Botsaris, by Costas Tsourakis
  • Cocktail Hour honoring Grand Marshals (Past and Present) and international representatives of nations that supported the Hellenic Revolution
  • Hellenic Dance Competition
  • Hellenic Street Fair
  • Miss Greek Independence Pageant
  • Educational Panel Discussions on the Revolution (Education Committee)
  • Sail to Freedom Boat Event to the Statue of Liberty
  • Professional Society Honorees – One outstanding member from each profession will be recognized in honor of the U.S. Semiquincentennial and chosen by each Professional Society
  • Missolonghi Theater Group Performance
  • Mantzaros Philharmonic from Corfu
  • Additional events proposed by Federation members to highlight the Revolution in unique ways

Leadership & Committees

The Parade Vice Chairs include: George Venizelos, George Parelemos, George Meintassis, and John Stroumbakis.

Committees span finance, professional Hellenic societies, cultural programming, education, marketing, technology, public relations, and special events, with dedicated chairs and co-chairs already hard at work. Committee lists, including prominent community leaders and professionals, will be shared in upcoming public communications.

A Call to the Hellenic Community

“The Greek Independence Day Parade 2026 will be a once-in-a-generation celebration linking two revolutionary anniversaries the fight for Greek freedom in 1821 and the ideals of liberty that sparked the American Revolution. Organizers are committed to creating a program that resonates with Hellenes, Philhellenes, and the public at large, drawing thousands of participants and spectators from across the United States and the Federation announcement notes.

Community members, sponsors, schools, and cultural organizations are encouraged to get involved through volunteering, participating in events, or supporting the parade’s Three Pillars of Giving.

About the Hellenic Societies of Greater New York

Founded to unite, represent, and promote the interests of Hellenic organizations in the greater New York area, the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York is the primary and legal organizer of the annual Greek Independence Day Parade since 1938. Through cultural, educational, and philanthropic initiatives, the Federation preserves and promotes Hellenic heritage for generations to come.

 

Source: GREEK NEWS USA.COM

Link:  https://www.greeknewsusa.com/preparations-in-full-swing-for-the-greek-independence-day-parade-2026/

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