Today, the Greeks commemorate the beginning of the War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire (March 25th 1821). On Kythira there will be a parade and wreath laying ceremony on the central squares in Potamos and Chora. Children of the primary and secondary schools will recite poems and The Potamos Fanfare will play the national anthem. After this formal part, children will perform traditional Kythirian dances.
Also on this date The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary that she would become the mother of Jesus Christ (March 25<sup>th</sup> is exactly 9 months before Christmas). Therefore, many Greeks go to church first, before watching the parade.