Ochi / Ohi Day

Ochi / Ohi Day (Cyprus/Greece) History

Ochi Day, also known as Ohi Day, commemorates the historic Greek rejection of the Italian ultimatum to surrender during the early days of World War II. This day signifies the determination and resilience of the Greek people in resisting fascist aggression, ultimately contributing to the Allied victory in the war. Ochi Day is marked with numerous events, including parades and festivities that involve both military and civilian participants.

The history of Ochi Day dates back to October 28, 1940, when the Greek Prime Minister, Ioannis Metaxas, responded with a defiant No (Ochi in Greek) to Italy's demand for the Greek government to allow Axis forces' entry into their territory. This act of resistance was later followed by the Greco-Italian War, where Greek forces successfully pushed back Italian invaders. As part of the European Union, Ochi Day holds importance to its member states as a reminder of the significance of unity and the principles of democracy, freedom, and resistance against tyranny that were upheld by the Greek people in the face of adversity.

The Greek embassies and consulates across the European Union host receptions, while local Greek associations organize gatherings and activities to celebrate this historic occasion. Ochi Day takes place on October 28th each year.

Top facts about Ochi / Ohi Day

• After Italy invaded Greece, Greece was quickly pushed back deep into the country because that were poorly prepared for war. Within four months, however, the Greeks had pushed the Italian army almost all the way back to the border.
• Greece was eventually defeated by the Axis powers, after Hitler sent military aid to Mussolini, but the small nation of 8 million still held out longer than both Poland and France before suffering defeat by the Axis powers.
• Despite Greece’s significant military and preparedness disadvantage, they were still the first allied nation to win a land battle against the Axis powers during World War II.
• After Greece was defeated in WWII, the nation was divided between Germany, Italy and Bulgaria and the government officials were exiled to Egypt.
• The true test of a leader is whether his followers will adhere to his cause from their own volition, enduring the most arduous hardships without being forced to do so, and remaining steadfast in the moments of greatest peril. – Xenophon, Greek historian, soldier, mercenary and student of Socrates.

In the News and Trending in the EU for Ochi / Ohi Day

Ochi / Ohi Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Attend the military and student parades in Athens, Greece. These are large elaborate displays that are put on every year and it is a great way to remember the men and women who sacrificed their lives after Greece said “no.”
• Spread awareness on social media by using the hash tags #OhiDay, #SayNo and #OchiOchiOchi.
• Watch a movie or TV show about the devastation and horror of WWII. Some of our favourites are: Band of Brothers (2001), The Pacific (2010), Pearl Harbour (2004), Schindler’s List (1999) and Saving Private Ryan (1998).
• The “no” response was based on the belief of freedom and democracy. Learn more about the struggle for democracy and freedom in the world today. Civil uprisings are constantly happening even in our time.
• Fly a Greek flag at your place of residence. This is one of the most common ways to celebrate Ohi Day and it is a symbol of Greek strength and solidarity. Most public buildings and homes will have a Greek flag posted.