Cyprus to participate in the 28th October military parade in Thessaloniki

Cyprus will be represented at the annual military parade in Thessaloniki on October 28, 2026, commemorating Greece's national "Oxi" Day. The event, held on Megalou Alexandrou Avenue at 11:00, serves as the highlight of celebrations that also include the liberation of Thessaloniki and the feast of Saint Demetrius.

Reports regarding the Cypriot contingent show some variations: several outlets state a 24-member commando platoon from the National Guard will march alongside war veterans from the Pancyprian Organisation for the Rehabilitation of War Victims and Disabled Veterans. Conversely, another source reports that the delegation consists of 24 volunteer reserve frogmen from the Cypriot Underwater Demolition Team Association (SEVAK), who are funding their own travel expenses. This marks a notable expansion of Cypriot participation following the involvement of 12 members of the veteran organization in the 2024 parade.

The inclusion of these units underscores the historical and military ties between Cyprus and Greece. The participating groups are currently preparing for the event, which remains the central focus of the city's national anniversary festivities.