Philadelphia, PA — November 20, 2025 — History came to life last night at The Logan Hotel as the City of Philadelphia received golden olive wreaths handcrafted in Marathon, Greece, a gift symbolizing victory, democracy, peace, and the endurance of the human spirit.
For the first time ever, these sacred symbols, created in the birthplace of the Marathon, will crown the champions of the 2025 Philadelphia Marathon, linking one of America’s most celebrated races to its ancient Greek origins.
This unprecedented cultural gesture was made possible through the vision and leadership of Consul General of Greece in New York, Iphigenia Kanara, in partnership with the Federation of Hellenic American Societies of Philadelphia and Greater Delaware Valley.
A Vision Rooted in Heritage and Democracy
The emotional centerpiece of the evening was the message delivered by Consul General Iphigenia Kanara, whose dedication transformed a simple idea into a historic moment for both cities.
She emphasized that the goal was not merely to present wreaths, but to create a living tradition that connects:
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Greece, the birthplace of democracy
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Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy
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and the timeless symbolism of the Marathon
She highlighted that the Marathon is not simply a race, it is a story of courage, sacrifice, resilience, and a moment in history that changed the world.
Kanara underscored the importance of educating younger generations about the profound meaning behind the Marathon’s 26.2 miles, a message of endurance, unity, democracy, and peace. Through her leadership, these powerful themes were carried across the Atlantic, embodied in four golden wreaths crafted in Marathon and ceremonially presented in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Welcomes the Gift With Pride
City officials expressed deep appreciation for this new tradition.
David G. Wilson, Chair and Deputy Managing Director, spoke about the profound synergy between Greece, the world’s first democracy and Philadelphia, where democracy first took shape in the United States. He warmly welcomed the Greek-American community and emphasized the symbolic significance of the Marathon.
Adam Thiel, Managing Director, speaking on behalf of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, conveyed the city’s gratitude and noted how meaningful gestures like this strengthen Philadelphia’s global presence.
In his closing words, Thiel affirmed the city’s pride: “We are truly honored to receive this gift, and the champions who wear these wreaths will carry with them the stories and values they represent.”
The Greek-American Community Elevates the Moment
The ceremony also featured remarks by Judge Harry Karapalides, President of the Federation, who reflected on the Marathon’s meaning and the privilege of helping bring this tradition to Philadelphia for the first time. Karapalides praised Consul General Kanara for her extraordinary commitment, calling her initiative a gift of “beauty, memory, and meaning.”
The evening was blessed with the presence of His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey, whose attendance offered spiritual depth and honored the significance of the occasion for the Greek Orthodox and Greek-American community.
Event Chairman John Vasiliou expressed pride that Philadelphia now joins the ranks of cities like Boston and Chicago, which have long incorporated olive wreath traditions and called the ceremony a “joyous occasion” marking the start of a new cultural chapter.
A New Chapter for the Philadelphia Marathon — and for Greek-American Relations
The golden olive wreaths from Marathon are more than ceremonial crowns. They are a bridge between two democracies, two histories, and two peoples connected by shared values and enduring friendship.
On Sunday, when the champions of the Philadelphia Marathon are crowned, they will not only wear a symbol of victory, they will wear a piece of ancient Greece, a symbol of democracy and resilience, and a reminder that history continues to run through our cities, our communities, and our shared ideals.
Through the leadership of Consul General Iphigenia Kanara, the devotion of the Greek-American community, and the partnership of the City of Philadelphia, a new tradition has been born, one that promises to grow, inspire, and unite for years to come.
