The 2024 Greek Festivals are in full swing.
What is a Greek Festival like? The simple answer is-a Greek food fest with music, entertainment, games for children, retail booths of Greek apparel and gifts.
The festivals are primarily held by the area Greek Orthodox Churches, and they are fundraisers. They are open and attended by Greeks and non-Greeks. Our fellow non-Greek guests have the opportunity to not only indulge in the delicious Mediterranean delicacies but to also join hands and kick up their heels to the music that beckons all to get up and dance. I know when I hear that music; I follow my body’s immediate response to hit the dance floor.
The Boston area is blessed to have an abundance of talented musicians who can cover the demand of the Festival Season. A special presentation by Traditional Folk Dancing Groups is always a draw. The Sons and Daughters of Alexander the Great is one of the popular groups that will perform at this year’s festivals.
In the early 60s, I recall going to events during the summer, which were referred to as picnics. I wrote about them in my memoir. Those picnics that were attended by hundreds of people have evolved to today’s festivals. I remember families packing keftedes, spanakopita, stuffed grape leaves and other specialties to bring along to the picnics. Although I cannot picture it, it’s possible there was food for sale. Surely there must have been an ice cream truck. The food and dancing seemed enough to make it a fun and satisfying day.
It was where people reconnected with their friends who had emigrated from the same cities or villages. Friends they didn’t see often because transportation was not as convenient at the time. Those picnics were a source of not only entertainment, but they also brought different communities together.
You will find a festival happening throughout the summer. The last two weekends in June have multiple events happening. I have the links below to find one near you for the entire summer in the Boston area. For a festival outside the Boston area, Google Greek Festival and plan to go eat, dance, shop, and have a ball! You will thank me-OPA!
At
https://www.greekboston.com/events/
https://www.yasas.com/greek/festivals/usa/
https://www.facebook.com/sonsanddaughtersofalexanderthegreat/