The commemoration of Greek Independence Day will have its long-awaiting return to the Sydney Opera House as the city’s Greek community marches for the first time in five years.
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOC of NSW) have organised this year’s commemorative events for Sunday, March 24, among which is going to be the first march since 2019.
The events, honouring the 203rd anniversary, will open with a memorial service and wreath laying ceremony at the Cenotaph in Martin Place, wherein numerous politicians, diplomats and representatives of community organisations will come together to honour the fallen.
Following that will be the much-anticipated march to the Opera House, which has not been done for five years.
The march was called off in 2020,2021 and 2022 due to COVID-19 while also being cancelled last year due to the Opera House undergoing renovations at the time.
There will also be a formal service following the march involving speeches from notable attendees as well as entertainment in the form of dancing performances from various groups.
The 203rd anniversary of Greek Independence Day will also be honoured by various community organisations, including in an event by AHEPA NSW on Wednesday, March 27, 7 p.m. at AHEPA NSW Hall and an event by the Combined Committee of AHEPA NSW Grand and Districts Lodges- AHEPA Australia on Friday, March 29, 12.30 p.m. at the Greek Community Club in Lakemba.
The significant date in Greece’s history has also been recognised by various local municipalities of Sydney, including by Burwood Council in an event held earlier this week on Wednesday, March 20.