ATHENS — The United States embassy will celebrate Independence Day (July 4th) this year with donations and virtual events, it said, in response to Greek government regulations that restrict large gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic.

US Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt said that this year's unprecedented health and financial crisis and racial tension have challenged America, but with the help of democratic institutions and the people's unity they will be overcome. He also mentioned the significance of international ties as one of the lessons of the pandemic.

Among actions the embassy has done for July 4 is donate the funds earmarked for the annual reception to three Greek NGOs – Apostoli, Kivotos tou Kosmou and Faros tou Kosmou – as well as the soup kitchen of the Metamorfosi tou Sotira church in Thessaloniki, for free meals.

From July 1 to 5, the US embassy building in Athens will be lit in the colors of the American flag, while and the YMCA building in Thessaloniki will also be lit on Saturday.

Also on Saturday, July 4, at 1:00 pm, Greek journalist and dj Panagiotis Menegos (member of "Laternative" group) will produce a virtual rock 'n roll party on the embassy's Instagram page (@usembassyathens). The public has been asked through social media to contribute suggestions for songs celebrating America.

An embassy video featuring the ambassador and diplomatic staff will speak of the historic ties between Greece and the United States, celebrating Independence Day, at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1t4tgMf0jyKEs2VTgFsBv284A7HEJWCnq/view?usp=sharing.