Festival packs traditional food, music, family fun into weekend
The corners of Sumter and Calhoun Streets came alive this weekend as hundreds flocked to Columbia's 26th annual Greek Festival. Visitors were met by the sounds of Greek music and dance, sights of cultural mementos up for sale and, of course, the smells of Greek cuisine; the Mediterranean delicacies drew many to the festival. Vendors offered an array of dishes. Souvlaki, a marinated pork skewer, was the choice of a large number of visitors. For those looking for a sweet treat, loukoumades, the Greek take on a doughnut, was the way to go. Even people who thought the authentic cuisine looked "all Greek to me" could pick up chicken fingers and fries for a more familiar meal. Of course, no trip to the festival would be complete without a stop at the gyro tent; the pita dish stuffed with a beef and lamb blend was a popular pick.
Many may have come for the food, but there was plenty to stick around for. Live performances of Greek tunes echoed throughout the event grounds. Children and adults alike took the opportunity to show their moves in both choreographed and spontaneous dance numbers. Cultural details were also on display through an assortment of colorful merchandise. Visitors could take home their own piece of Greece in classic trinkets and attire for sale. Local children also had plenty to be excited about with the number of carnival-style rides and inflatable attractions.
Columbia's Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church organizes the annual event. The church used the influx of the community to proudly show off their newly constructed sanctuary. Festival attendees were able to tour the gold domed building throughout the weekend in between the sights and sounds of the festival experience.