A “polar vortex” that reached across much of the northern part of the continent didn’t put the dampers on the Greeks of Montreal, who came out in full force to celebrate the anniversary of Greek Independence in their own neighborhood of Park Extension.
Joining Quebec’s largest Greek community this year was newly-elected prime minister of Canada Justin Trudeau— considered the hometown guy. Trudeau’s election district, or “riding” as it’s called in Canada is Papineau, which includes the heavily Greek-populated neighborhood of Parc Extension.
“Participation was tremendous,” said Nicholas Pagonis to CTV News, President of the Hellenic Community of Montreal, which organizes the parade. “The Prime Minister honored us with his presence and many other dignitaries. We thank Montreal for being a part of us and we are a part of Montreal.”