UNESCO World Greek Language Day
World Greek Language Day is a global celebration of one of the world’s oldest living languages. Officially recognised by UNESCO, it is held every year on 9 February, marking the anniversary of the death of Dionysios Solomos, Greece’s national poet and author of the Hymn to Liberty.
Greek has been spoken for more than 4,000 years. It has shaped philosophy, democracy, medicine, science and the arts around the world. This day celebrates that legacy — and helps ensure it continues.
Join us for the Melbourne celebrations, whether you are of Greek heritage, learning the language, or simply curious.
Why it Matters
Greek is a living language. It is spoken and studied today in classrooms, homes, churches and theatres. Thousands of English words come directly from Greek, often without us realising it.
World Greek Language Day invites everyone — students, educators and friends of Greek culture — to see Greek as a shared global heritage. By celebrating together, we help keep this ancient language vibrant and relevant for future generations.
Who We Are
We are a collaborative, community-led group, bringing together representatives from multiple organisations and guided by an annually elected board.
The Melbourne celebration began when Professor Anastasios Tamis brought cultural groups and educators together to mark World Greek Language Day locally. He has been a long-standing advocate for international recognition of the Greek language through UNESCO.
This year is especially significant. It marks the first Melbourne celebration since UNESCO’s formal recognition of the day. Under Professor Tamis’ leadership, our committee is proud to deliver a program that reflects this new global status.