Greece preparations for October 28 national holiday 2026

The national holiday of October 28, 2026, falls on a Wednesday, meaning it will not create a traditional three-day weekend. As a mandatory public holiday, businesses subject to holiday regulations are prohibited from normal operations, though certain sectors may legally operate. Employees working on this day are entitled to a 75% wage increase according to labor laws, while those not working receive their usual daily wage.

Schools will be closed on Wednesday, October 28. On Tuesday, October 27, schools will hold traditional festive celebrations instead of the regular lesson schedule.

Parade schedules differ between major cities. In Athens, the student parade is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, at 11:00, following official ceremonies and wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In Thessaloniki, the student parade will take place on Tuesday, October 27, due to the celebration of Saint Demetrios. The major parade in Thessaloniki, featuring military, student, and political contingents, will be held on Wednesday, October 28, on Leoforos Megalou Alexandrou.