Sydney will host its first celebration of World Greek Language Day on Monday, 9 February 2026, marking a significant international milestone following the recognition of the Day by UNESCO in November 2025.
The event will be held at the University of Sydney’s Refectory and is being presented by the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney in collaboration with the Department of Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies, University of Sydney.
World Greek Language Day celebrates the enduring global influence of the Greek language as a cornerstone of philosophy, democracy, science and culture, and its continued relevance within contemporary multicultural societies.
The evening will open with a welcome reception, followed by official greetings from the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Giorgos Skemperis, and Professor Avril Alba, Head of the School of Languages & Cultures at the University of Sydney.
A key highlight of the program will be the presentation of awards to HSC top achievers in Modern Greek courses, recognising excellence in Greek language studies among secondary students.
The keynote address will be delivered by Professor Vrasidas Karalis, Chair of the Department of Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies, who will reflect on the cultural, literary and philosophical legacy of the Greek language and its place in the modern world.
The program will also feature a live musical performance of Erotokritos, the iconic 17th-century Cretan poetic song, performed by the Cretan band IXO NYX.
A panel discussion moderated by Professor Karalis will follow, with panellists including actress, author and public speaker Mary Coustas and entrepreneur Mark Bouris AM, exploring the role of language in identity, communication and cultural continuity.
The evening will be hosted by journalist Tom Skolarikis and digital creator Kalliopi Roditis.
Event details
- Event: World Greek Language Day
- Date: Monday, 9 February 2026
- Time: 5:30pm
- Venue: The Refectory, University of Sydney
- RSVP by: 29 January 2026
- RSVP email: pdo.syd@mfa.gr
