More than 10,000 participants and spectators came together for the Toronto for Greek Independence Parade on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
They honored a pivotal moment in Greek history in the event which was a resounding success, according to the organizers, the Greek Community of Toronto.
Taking place along Toronto’s Danforth Ave, the parade beautifully displayed Greece’s vibrant culture and profound heritage, emphasizing the community’s deep-rooted connections.
A highlight of the year is always the Greek Independence Day parade on the Danforth.
The Greek community helped to build Toronto into the diverse and welcoming community it is today. pic.twitter.com/hM0yEEcfOm
— Salma Zahid (@SalmaZahid15) April 6, 2025
The day enjoyed splendid weather, enhancing the overall sense of pride and excitement in the atmosphere.
Betty Skoutakis, President of the Greek Community of Toronto, along with the board of directors, proudly led the parade, symbolizing the unity and resilience of their community. Following the parade, dignitaries and onlookers gathered at Alexander the Great Parkette for a poignant wreath-laying ceremony, further underscoring the day’s significance.
Today, joined with @Effie_ONB and @Aris_Babikian we proudly celebrated the annual Greek Independence Day Parade.
We are very lucky to have an active and vibrant Greek community in our Ontario!
Zito I Ellas! pic.twitter.com/UWDD1hvm12
— Michael Kerzner (@TeamKerzner) April 6, 2025
Among the dignitaries who honored the Greek Indpendence Day Parade with their presence, included:
• His Eminence Archbishop Sotirios, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada
• Consul General of the Hellenic Republic in Toronto Ioannis Chatzantonakis
• Consul General of Cyprus in Toronto Dimitris Soudas
• MP Julie Dabrusin
• MP Salma Zahid
• Hon Michael S Kerzner Solicitor General
• MPP Effie Triantafillopoulos
• MPP Aris Babikian
• MPP Peter Tabuns
• Mayor of Toronto Olivia Chow
• City Councillor Paula Fletcher
• City Councillor Nick Mantas
• City Councillor Brad Bradford
• Toronto Police Inspector Michael Hayles
• President of the Greek Town on the Danforth BIA Antonios Pethakas
The Greek community of Toronto is a great example of how this Canadian metropolis embraces its rich multicultural background, with Greeks being an integral part of the city’s proud historical and cultural landscapes.
The Greeks of Toronto go as far back as the early 19th century. With roots stretching back to the 1800s, the first wave of Greek immigrants arrived in the area right after Greek independence was attained.
From the bustling streets of Greektown on Danforth Avenue to the quieter neighborhoods scattered throughout the ever-expanding city, Greek-Canadians have made themselves an integral part of Toronto’s proud multicultural identity.
The heart of Toronto’s Greek community is centered in Greektown around Alexander Square on Danforth Avenue. It is known as the largest Greektown in North America, and is home to numerous businesses owned by members of the community.
The community’s vibrant social scene offers great entertainment opportunities to both its members and the wider community of Toronto.
Greek dance groups have up to 800 children who are members, while events like the Greek International Film Festival, Toronto Economic Forum, and the Hellenic Heritage Foundation Gala draw thousands of attendees each year, keeping the spark of Hellenism alive in this corner of North America.
