NEW YORK – The Parade Committee of the Federation of Greek Societies of Greater New York invites the entire Greek community to attend the first official Pan-Homogeneous Meeting of the new year and to participate in the beginning of preparations for the 2026 Greek Independence Parade, a year of exceptional historical and symbolic significance.
The meeting will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., at the Federation's headquarters, the Stathakio Cultural Center (22-51 29th Street, Astoria, New York 11105).
This gathering will have an organizational and ceremonial character, since during its duration the cutting of the annual Vasilopitas will take place, a time-honored Greek tradition that marks the beginning of the New Year, but also the unity and collectivity of the common effort to organize events of honor and remembrance of our history and heritage.
It will be a special honor to have the presence of His Eminence Bishop of Nazianzus, Mr. Athenagoras, who is expected to bless the meeting and the Vasilopita, representing Archbishop Elpidophoros. Also present will be the Consul General of Greece in New York, Ms. Ifigenia Kanara, and the Consul General of Cyprus in New York, Mr. Kyriakos Pogiatzis.
The 87th Annual Federation Parade in 2026 commemorates a significant double anniversary of 205/250 years:
- the 205th Anniversary of the Greek Revolution of 1821 and
- the 250th Anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence of July 4, 1776
In addition, the parade will honor key milestones in modern Greek history:
- the 250th anniversary of the birth of Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first Governor of Greece
- the 200th anniversary of the Exodus of Messolonghi, a defining moment of sacrifice and freedom
- the 90th anniversary of the death of Eleftherios Venizelos, architect of modern Greek political art
These commemorations remind us that the struggles for freedom, dignity, and self-determination connect Greece and America throughout the centuries.
The Parade, organized on Sunday, April 26, 2026, by the Federation of Greek Societies of Greater New York and proudly marching every year on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, remains the largest parade outside of Greece since March 25, 1821, as it expresses and unites generations, organizations, churches, students and communities under one banner.
Hellenism is invited to attend this meeting on January 15 and to move forward with faith, unity and commitment to the common cause.
photo FrankyFromGermany, https://pixabay.com
