White House Roundup

Thursday March 26, 2026

Greek Independence Day Celebration at the White House

President Donald Trump hosted the 205th Greek Independence Day Celebration at the White House on Thursday. This has been an annual event for the past 40 years at the White House.

President Trump recalled that this year the United States celebrates her 250th Independence Anniversary. And he reflected on the Greeks obtaining their independence in 1821. He opined that ever since then the two nations have stood side-by-side.

President Trump reminded the audience of the long Greek tradition, which is, only citizens must vote in their elections. Thus, he reiterated that this was a commonsense principle.

President Trump also thanked the Greek Americans for their contributions to the economic and social developments across the United States. He thanked those who are serving in Congress and in his Administration. He also praised Greek architecture and foods. The president referenced the beautiful ballroom under construction at the White House. He anticipates that it will be completed in a year and a half and under budget.

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros (Lambriniadis) of the Greek Orthodox Church gave a short speech and ended with a prayer of blessing for the president.

The East Room was packed with guests from all walks of life, including: ambassadors, politicians, businessmen and women and others of Greek heritage.

Written by Cherub Nicholls. Photos by Cherub Nicholls. Location: East Room, White House. Thursday March 26th.