Earlier this month, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway was awash in blue and white as Philadelphia’s Greek-American community gathered for the annual Greek Independence Day Parade.
The celebration brought together local churches, schools, and cultural organizations, whose members marched proudly with flags and banners. Traditional costumes, music, and dance enriched the festive atmosphere, while spectators lined the sidewalks to cheer on the procession and enjoy familiar flavors from food vendors.
A highlight of the parade was the appearance of the Evzones, the Presidential Guard of Greece. Their precise movements and distinctive uniforms drew admiration and applause, offering a powerful visual reminder of Greece’s enduring symbols and the legacy of 1821.
This year’s Grand Marshals were Drake and Maria Behrakis, honored for their continued support of Hellenic causes. The Eleftheria Medal was awarded to Caterina Papoulias-Sakellaris in recognition of her contributions to the preservation of Greek heritage and public service.
More than a celebration, the parade reaffirmed the bonds that unite generations of Greek Americans in the region.
View the photo gallery below for highlights from this year’s event.