October 28 in Cyprus. What do we celebrate on Ochi Day?

Tomorrow, Wednesday, October 28, Cyprus will celebrate Ochi Day. The holiday commemorates Greece's rejection of the Italian ultimatum in 1940. For islanders, it also means closed banks and offices, as well as celebrations that may affect traffic in cities.

The Greek word "όχι" means "no." This short word became a symbol of defiance of the demands of fascist Italy and resistance during World War II. Although the anniversary concerns Greek history, it also holds an important place in the Cypriot calendar.

"Ochi" Day. Where did the October 28 holiday come from?

In the early morning hours of October 28, 1940, Italian ambassador Emanuele Grazzi delivered an ultimatum from Benito Mussolini's government to Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas. Italy demanded permission to enter and occupy strategic points in Greek territory.

Accepting these conditions would have meant handing over control of key infrastructure to the aggressor. Metaxas rejected the demands, and Italian forces attacked Greece from the direction of occupied Albania.

The Greek army halted the offensive and then launched a counterattack. These events became an important symbol of resistance to the Axis powers.

The word "ochi" itself is a shorthand for refusal. According to historical accounts, Metaxas's response was in French and meant, "Therefore, war." However, it was the emphatic "no" that has remained etched in collective memory.

Why is the holiday also celebrated in Cyprus?

The celebrations on the island are connected to the historical and cultural ties of Greek Cypriots with Greece. Ochi Day commemorates the resistance to fascism and the significant war experiences of the Greek community.

October 28 is a public holiday in the Cypriot calendar. Traditionally, it is marked by religious services, commemorative ceremonies, and parades involving students and community organizations. Greek and Cypriot flags are flown in public spaces.

It is worth distinguishing between two October dates. On October 1, Cyprus celebrates Independence Day, while October 28 marks the anniversary of the Greek "no" in 1940. Each of these holidays has its own historical significance.

What will be closed on October 28 in Cyprus?

The Central Bank of Cyprus has confirmed that banks will be closed on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Regular business should also be avoided at public offices. This is a public holiday for schools.

It's worth checking the opening hours of shops, restaurants, and services directly at your chosen location. Especially in resorts and coastal areas, some businesses operate during holidays.

Parades can change traffic organization

Those heading to city centers should consider the possibility of temporary street closures for the celebrations. Exact times and routes depend on local programming.

Before leaving, it's worth checking the announcements from your municipality, the police, and your bus company. This applies especially to travel through celebration venues and to the airport, where additional detours may be necessary.

For those who have recently moved to Cyprus, Ochi Day is also an opportunity to learn about local traditions. Behind the flags and school parades stands the memory of the refusal to submit to the aggressor—an event that remains an important point of reference for generations to come.