Oxi Day, also known as Oxi Day, is a national holiday in Greece and Cyprus that takes place on October 28. It celebrates Greece's defiance of Italian demands to surrender during World War II. 

What happened on Oxi Day?

• On October 28, 1940, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini sent an ultimatum to Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas. 

• The ultimatum demanded that Italian troops be allowed to pass through Greece to occupy strategic points. 

• Metaxas rejected the ultimatum with the French phrase "Alors, c'est la guerre", which means "Then, it is war". 

• Greece's refusal led to the country's entry into World War II and the start of the Greco-Italian War. 

How is Oxi Day celebrated? 

• Oxi Day is marked by parades, festivities, street shows, and fireworks.

• It's also a time to reflect on the virtues of courage, statesmanship, and national pride.

• The Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, and other archeological sites and museums are free to visit.

Why is Oxi Day important?

Oxi Day is important because it demonstrates the commitment of the Greek people to their faith and their country. It also inspired other nations to resist the Axis forces.