Recently, I have written multiple articles about festivals celebrating places all over the world. 

We have another, and that is Greek Fest, which returns to Headwaters Park from Thursday, June 20, to Sunday, June 23. 

Like the Cherry Blossom Festival, Arab Fest, and Germanfest, Greek Fest allows you to try authentic cuisine, listen to live music, and watch traditional dancing from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Something for all

This is the 44th annual Greek Festival, and interest has not waned at all.

“Greek fest was always so fun,” said regular attendee Charles Lowery. “I remember going down to Headwaters Park with my dad and enjoying all of the delicious food and music. We always had such a good time.” 

For Max Rottenbeck, it’s the food and music that he looks forward to at the festival.

“I had a great time last year drinking some Greek beer and eating an authentic gyro while listening to a Greek band playing,” he said. “It was really cool to see such a different style of music being performed.”

Dig in 

The food options are definitely one of the crowd favorites. 

With so many options, some of the meals that piqued my interest include a pork souvlaki dinner and the pastichio dinner. The pork souvlaki is made of two pork skewers that are marinated in olive oil, lemon, and Greek herbs, grilled, and served with rice pilaf and a roll. The pastichio dinner is a version of a Greek lasagna, including macaroni, ground beef, and Greek-herb sauce topped with béchamel and cheese. 

Are you more interested in pastries? Don’t worry, there are tons of those too! 

Probably the most famous is the layered baklava, but there are so many options it’s hard to choose. 

One possibility is the melomakarona, an orange-flavored cookie that is dipped in a honeyed syrup that sounds incredible.

There will also be a taverna (tavern) that offers Greek beer and wine as well as food that you would find in a Greek tavern. 

More than food

While you enjoy all of the marvelous food, you can listen and dance to the The Band Lazarus that will be playing Greek music. They will have performances daily throughout the weekend. 

Dancing isn’t your style? Don’t worry, Fort Wayne’s own Holy Trinity Triada Dancers will be performing. 

According to the Holy Trinity of Fort Wayne’s website, “The Triada Dance group performs dances that represent all regions of Greece. Dancers range from age four to adult. The troupe is comprised of five Greek dance groups: Kala Paidia, Doxa, Asteria Meraklides, and Omega.” 

A Plaka will be open offering shopping for authentic jewelry, clothing, and trinkets. 

This Plaka is a shop, but what is it based on? 

Plaka is a very historical neighborhood in Athens. Not only is it one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens, it is also called the “neighborhood” of the gods due to where it is located. Many archaeological sites surround the neighborhood as well as famous architectures. 

Learning experience

As always, learning about different cultures is an important part of the human experience. Fort Wayne is lucky to have such a diverse community and have so many festivals that celebrate the traditions and heritage of them. 

These events don’t only showcase the diversity but also provide ample opportunities for residents to learn, connect, and embrace the beauty of multiculturalism.