Long Island Celebrates 205th Hellenic-American Heritage Day

Annual event honors Greek independence and community contributions

Apr. 2, 2026 at 7:20pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a traditional Greek coffee cup repeated in a tight grid pattern, capturing the celebratory and community-focused nature of the Hellenic-American Heritage Day event.The vibrant Hellenic-American Heritage Day celebration in Mineola, New York, honors the community's enduring cultural traditions and contributions.Mineola Today

The 205th Hellenic-American Heritage Day celebration was held on March 26, 2026 in Mineola, New York, hosted by the Nassau County Executive and local Greek Orthodox churches and AHEPA family chapters. The event featured speeches, performances, and recognition of community leaders, commemorating Greek independence and the vibrant Greek-American culture on Long Island.

Why it matters

This annual celebration showcases the enduring Hellenic heritage and civic engagement of the Greek-American community in Nassau County, New York. It highlights their contributions to the region's culture, faith, and civic life, as well as the longstanding alliance between Greece and the United States.

The details

The daylong celebration included an afternoon program with speeches, performances, and the presentation of proclamations and honors. Speakers included Nassau County officials, AHEPA leaders, and clergy from local Greek Orthodox churches. The evening portion featured a keynote address by journalist and sociologist Dr. Despina Afentouli, as well as the recognition of several community leaders and organizations.

  • The celebration took place on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
  • The afternoon program ran from late morning to early afternoon.
  • The evening program began at 6 PM at the same location.

The players

Bruce A. Blakeman

The Nassau County Executive who hosted the event.

Anastasi Stampolis

The chairman of the event and president of the AHEPA Constantine Cassis Chapter No. 170.

Daughters of Penelope Empire New York State District 6 Marshall Tatiana Srampolis

Spoke about the importance of Hellenism to the next generation.

Dr. Despina Afentouli

The keynote speaker for the evening program, a journalist and sociologist.

Rev. John Lardas

The Proistamenos of Archangel Michael Church in Brookville who spoke about the event.

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What they’re saying

“Our County Supervisor Bruce Blakeman sends his regards, We celebrate every race, every religion in peace and harmony”

— Elaine Phillips, Nassau County Comptroller

“This is not only a commemoration of the Greeks in the War for Independence; it was a fight for freedom. It was a struggle to preserve our identity, our culture, our faith, and the right to live under self-rule. Greece has been a steadfast ally of the United States through every conflict, and even now, as we face global challenges, this bond continues to grow stronger.”

— Theodore A. Stamas, AHEPA Supreme Counselor

“Hellenism has become one of the most meaningful parts of my life, not because I was born into it, but because I was welcomed into it so completely that became part of who I am. From my church, I learned language, traditions, religion, and culture. This is part of the rhythm of my life, and the community around shaping me. Hellenism means not just heritage, but a living culture built on faith, family, devotion, and the responsibility to show up for one another.”

— Tatiana Srampolis, Daughters of Penelope Empire New York State District 6 Marshall

What’s next

The annual Greek Parade in New York City is scheduled for April 26, 2026, and the organizers are encouraging everyone to attend and show their support for the Hellenic-American community.

The takeaway

This celebration demonstrates the enduring strength and vibrant culture of the Greek-American community on Long Island, as they come together to honor their heritage, faith, and civic engagement. It highlights the longstanding alliance between Greece and the United States, and the important role the Greek-American community plays in fostering that relationship.