Thousands of fans of PAOK FC gathered in central Thessaloniki to celebrate the club’s 100th anniversary, transforming Aristotelous Square into a sea of black and white in a night of passion and spectacle.
Centenary celebrations for the “Double-Headed Eagle of the North” reached their peak on Monday, as supporters staged a dramatic pyro show, lighting flares and fireworks in honour of the club’s founding in 1926.
At exactly 19:26 — a symbolic reference to the year of PAOK’s establishment — the square erupted in light and colour, with dozens of flares illuminating the city centre and creating an electric atmosphere filled with emotion.
Fans gathered in their thousands, many arriving hours earlier to secure a place in the iconic square, while others continued to pour in despite brief rainfall earlier in the evening. The weather did little to dampen spirits, with crowds remaining firmly in place as the celebrations unfolded.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, former athletes who have represented PAOK across multiple sports were present at the landmark site, contributing to the celebratory mood and honouring the club’s rich history.
The anniversary events are set to continue in the coming days, with supporters hoping the milestone year will be crowned with silverware. PAOK is scheduled to face OFI Crete FC in the Greek Cup final on 25 April, while the club’s basketball side will take on Bilbao Basket in a two-leg European tie on 22 and 29 April.
For PAOK fans, the centenary is not only a celebration of the club’s past, but a moment of unity and anticipation for what lies ahead.