U.S. citizens in Greece have been alerted to demonstrations planned for Monday, November 17, 2025, in Athens and Thessaloniki. The U.S. Mission in Greece has advised that these events often occur annually to mark the anniversary of the 1973 Athens Polytechnic University student uprising against the military junta.
In Athens, demonstrators are expected to gather at several locations throughout the city before proceeding to Syntagma Square and marching up Vasilissis Sofias Avenue toward the U.S. Embassy. Police will close streets and metro stations near the embassy and downtown area during the day, which may result in significant traffic disruptions.
In Thessaloniki, authorities anticipate similar demonstrations near the U.S. Consulate General and expect restricted access in those areas.
According to previous years' reports, these demonstrations have attracted over 30,000 participants in Athens and tens of thousands more in Thessaloniki. Some past protests have turned violent with incidents of property damage and confrontations between police and demonstrators.
The U.S. Mission stated: "U.S. government personnel have been advised to avoid the demonstrations and the downtown areas of Athens and Thessaloniki on November 17, 2025. Starting at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, November 17, the U.S. Embassy in Athens and U.S. Consulate General in Thessaloniki will close for in-person public services. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, November 18."
The advisory urges individuals to avoid demonstration areas, exercise caution around large gatherings or protests, monitor local media for updates, keep a low profile, carry identification, and cooperate with police.
Further information is available from the U.S. Embassy in Greece.