It was a great day for Greek America as the annual New York City Greek Independence Day returned to Fifth Avenue after a three year hiatus due to the pandemic.

Supreme President Jimmy Kokotas participated as an Honorary Grand Marshal. He marched alongside New York City Mayor Eric Adams and U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney.

“I am grateful to the Federation for appointing me as an Honorary Grand Marshal,” Kokotas said, adding, “It was an honor and very meaningful to march in my hometown parade, representing AHEPA as Supreme President during our centennial anniversary. AHEPA commends the planning committee for organizing an outstanding parade and series of events marking Greece’s independence.”

Daughters of Penelope Grand President Kathy Bizoukas, Maids of Athena Grand President Maria Ana Pantelous, Chairman of the Board Nicholas A. Karacostas, PSP; DOP Grand Vice President Georgette Boulegeris, Supreme Secretary Savas Tsivicos, MOA Grand Treasurer Rigo Nasopoulos, Past Supreme President George Horiates, Executive Director Basil Mossaidis, and several district and chapter AHEPA family officers from the tri-state area participated. 

Grand Marshals were: His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, Hellenic Caucus Co-Chairs U.S. Reps. Carolyn Maloney and Gus Bilirakis, U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, and Olympic Gold Medalist Fani Chalkia.

New Greek TV reported on the parade. Thanks to Journalist Yanna Darilis, who interviewed Supreme President Kokotas. 

Kokotas and Bizoukas also addressed parade participants at a morning kick-off event held at Avra Madison Estiatorio. 

Ζήτω η Ελλάδα!