Date
Saturday
Mar

March 1-31

Greek-American Heritage Month

Get ready to dance, feast, and celebrate all things Greek during Greek-American Heritage Month - Opa!

Yearly Date
March 1
Type
Month

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate Greek-American Heritage Month starting on March 1! This month-long celebration pays tribute to the rich culture and contributions of Greek-Americans to American society. Did you know that the first organized Greek community in the United States was established in New Orleans in 1763? Today, over 3 million Americans identify as having Greek ancestry, making it one of the largest ethnic groups in the country. From delicious food to traditional dances and music, there are plenty of ways to honor and embrace this vibrant heritage during this special month. Opa!

Greek-American Heritage Month Timeline

1821
Greek Independence
The Greek War of Independence began, marking the start of a long journey towards a free and sovereign Greece.
1860s
First Greek-Americans
The first wave of Greeks emigrated to America during the 1860s, seeking new opportunities.
1896
First Modern Olympic Games
The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens, Greece, reinstating an ancient Greek tradition.
1987
Greek-American Heritage Recognized
Congress declared March as National Greek-American Heritage Month to honor the contributions and culture of Greek-Americans.
Present Day
Continued Celebrations
Every year, Greek-Americans celebrate their heritage throughout March with cultural events, music, food, and more.

How to Celebrate Greek-American Heritage Month

1

Explore Greek cuisine

Try out different Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava. You can either go out to a Greek restaurant or try making these dishes at home.

2

Attend a Greek festival

Check your local events calendar for any Greek festivals happening in your area. These festivals often include traditional food, music, and dancing, giving you a taste of Greek culture.

3

Learn about Greek history and mythology

Read books or watch documentaries about Greek history and mythology. You can also visit museums or historical sites related to ancient Greece.

4

Take a Greek language course

Enroll in a Greek language course to learn the basics of the language. You can also practice with Greek friends or use language learning apps.

5

Celebrate with a Greek-themed party

Invite friends over for a Greek-themed party, complete with traditional food, music, and decorations. You can also encourage guests to dress up in Greek-inspired attire.

Why We Love Greek-American Heritage Month

A

Celebrating the richness of Greek-American culture

Greek-American Heritage Month is a time to honor and celebrate the many contributions that Greek-Americans have made to our country. From art and literature, to cuisine and business, this month allows us to recognize and appreciate the diverse cultural heritage of Greek-Americans.

B

The opportunity to learn about Greek history and traditions

Greek-American Heritage Month also provides a chance for people to delve deeper into the rich history and traditions of Greece. Through various events, workshops, and celebrations, individuals can learn about iconic figures, ancient customs, and modern practices that make up this vibrant culture.

C

Promoting diversity and inclusivity

Greek-American Heritage Month highlights the importance of embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity. It serves as a reminder that America is a country built on the contributions of different cultures, and we should continue to embrace and celebrate these differences.

Greek-American Heritage Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 28
Tuesday
2024
Feb 29
Thursday
2025
Feb 28
Friday
2026
Feb 28
Saturday
2027
Feb 28
Sunday