Greek Independence Day is celebrated on the 25th of March.
It marks the anniversary of the raising of the flag of revolution over the Monastery of Agia Lavra in the Peloponnese in 1821 by Bishop Germanos of Patras.
In Athens, there is an impressive 
military parade.
In villages of Greece, it is celebrated with parades by the children of the village. Many proudly wear national costume or their scouting uniforms. Independence Day in Molyvos was no exception with smiling parents and villagers lining the streets to watch.
Independence Day coincides with the Greek Orthodox celebration of the Ann
unciation when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her that she would bear the son of God.
It is also said by many to be the day that the swallows return to Greece, marking the beginning of summer.
I will keep a lookout and let you know.
NICE pictures and report on the Independence Day celebrations, Robin.
Re your reference to the fact that it is the day swallows are supposed to return, I think the swallows got their timing slightly out this year. The first barn swallows – not the red rumped variety that are often seen around the olive groves of Molyvos – have been around for a couple of weeks.
Pantelis Thomaidis posted his first photos of swallows in the island more than a week ago on the Lesvos Birders section of Facebook.
Thank you Frank. The first barn swallows arrived at our house this morning. We have really missed their chatter and it was wonderful to sit in the sunshine this morning watching the aerial acrobatics.