Cyprus commemorates Ohi Day with national events and parades

On October 28, 2026, Cyprus commemorated the 'Ohi Day' anniversary, marking the rejection of the Italian ultimatum by Greece in 1940. The day began with a solemn doxology at the Cathedral of Apostolos Varnavas in Nicosia, presided over by Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, and attended by President Nikos Christodoulides, House President Annita Dimitriou, Greek Ambassador Konstantinos Kollias, and government officials. Minister of Agriculture Christos Senekis delivered the commemorative speech.

Following the religious service, a student and institutional parade took place in front of the Greek Embassy in Nicosia. Participants included veterans, higher education students, secondary school pupils, scouts, and various organizations. Notably, the parade in Nicosia featured the Corfu Philharmonic Orchestra and cultural clubs from Kavala and Panagia Soumela. Similar commemorative parades and events were held across other cities and municipalities in Cyprus, including Paphos and Limassol, where government representatives accepted the salutes.

The celebrations reflect the historical significance of the 1940 resistance against fascist and Nazi forces. Events leading up to the main day included cultural tributes in Paphos, where Professor Pantelis Voutouris discussed the literary representation of the war, as well as school-based preparations and wreath-laying ceremonies held on October 27.