In January 2026, one of Philadelphia’s longest-standing Greek-American institutions will mark a rare milestone. AHEPA Chapter 26, founded in the early years of the Order’s national expansion, will celebrate 100 years of continuous presence and service in the city with a centennial anniversary event on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
The celebration will be held at The Arts Ballroom in Center City Philadelphia, bringing together members, families, and supporters to reflect on a legacy shaped by civic engagement, philanthropy, and the promotion of Hellenic ideals in American public life.
The evening will begin with a reception from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner and entertainment at 6:00 p.m., with music provided by Atlantis of Philadelphia. The event is organized under the theme of “Fostering Hellenic Ideals Through Service and Volunteerism,” a mission that has defined AHEPA’s role locally and nationally since its founding.
Founded in 1926, AHEPA emerged during a period of intense social pressure on Greek immigrants in the United States. Over the decades, Chapter 26 became part of a broader effort to support education, civic participation, and community solidarity, while helping Greek-Americans navigate their place within American society. That history, organizers say, continues to inform the chapter’s work today.
In advance of the anniversary, AHEPA Chapter 26 has announced a $4,000 donation toward Thalassemia research at Penn State College of Medicine, supporting work led by Dr. Zissis Chroneos. The contribution reflects the chapter’s ongoing commitment to philanthropy and public service, particularly in support of communities affected by inherited blood disorders common among populations of Mediterranean origin.
The centennial observance will include a Liturgy service at the Cathedral of Saint George earlier in the day, before the evening celebration in Center City Philadelphia.
Attendance at the event is by advance reservation, with a $125 per person donation, which supports the chapter’s philanthropic and community initiatives.
The event is expected to draw senior leadership from AHEPA nationally, along with clergy and community figures from across Greater Philadelphia, marking the chapter’s standing within both the organization and the city’s Greek-American civic life.
For additional background on the centennial celebration and the work of the AHEPA Hercules Spartan Chapter 26 of Greater Philadelphia, including historical context and chapter initiatives, more information is available through the chapter’s official website at ahepa26.org.
Editor’s note: This event was originally scheduled for January 25, 2026, and has been rescheduled to Sunday, February 15, 2026, due to weather conditions. The article has been updated to reflect the new date and details.
Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending, as dates, times, locations, and registration information may change.