Greece marks Oxi Day with ceremonial cannon fire

On October 28, 2026, Greece commemorated the anniversary of 'Oxi' Day, marking the country's historic 1940 refusal to submit to an Axis power ultimatum. The nationwide celebrations began in the early morning with traditional ceremonial cannon fire in both Athens and Thessaloniki.

In Athens, artillery units positioned on Mount Lycabettus commenced the ritual at 06:47 local time. According to established military protocol, a total of 21 salvos were fired at 30-second intervals to honor the heroes of the Albanian front and signify the start of the holiday observances. Simultaneous ceremonies were conducted at the White Tower in Thessaloniki. These acts serve as the official inauguration of the day's events, which are scheduled to culminate with a student parade in Syntagma Square in Athens later in the afternoon.

These festivities are held annually to celebrate national defiance and unity during the Second World War. The event honors the moment when the Greek government rejected the Italian ultimatum, leading to the country's entry into the conflict.