Thessaloniki begins Saint Demetrios celebrations

Festivities honoring Saint Demetrios, the patron saint of Thessaloniki, are set to begin on Wednesday, October 14. The celebrations will center on the arrival of the Holy Icon of Panagia Chozoviotissa from Amorgos.

According to the Holy Metropolis of Thessaloniki, the events will commence at 5:30 p.m. with a procession from the Pilgrimage Sanctuary of Saint Demetrios toward the Governorate building. At 6:30 p.m., Metropolitan Philotheos, alongside clergy, military and political authorities, and the faithful, will officially welcome the icon. Following the reception, religious services including a Doxology, Vespers, and a vigil will be held at the Holy Temple of Saint Demetrios.

The program of celebrations will continue daily through Sunday, November 1. To accommodate pilgrims, the Holy Temple of Saint Demetrios will remain open daily from 6:00 a.m. until 12:30 a.m.