Since the late 1970s, the annual Saint Nicholas Greek Folk Festival has treated Baltimoreans to the best and most authentic of Hellenic dance, food, crafts and music. This year is no exception as Greek traditions, culture and life are once again celebrated.
From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, the festivities take place at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church,both outdoors and inside the church hall.
“This weekend is the culmination of months of preparation,” said Chrys Kefalas, public relations spokesperson for the church, adding that the food alone “is as good as my mom makes.”
Greek Cuisine, as integral to the culture as music, is in abundance here. Revelers can choose from such offerings as Gyros, grilled octopus, moussaka, Greek salad, Baklava and Karadopita. (Those unfamiliar with any or all of these dishes will have a great time discovering and enjoying them.)
Craft booths offer items for purchase that include religious icons and texts, fine jewelry, Greek music CDs, handcrafted items and Greek cookbooks ? in English, of course!
For centuries, music and dancing have been the cornerstone of Greek tradition, culture and life itself. Since the festival celebrates life, music and dancing take center stage this weekend. Greek Orthodox parishes from all across the state and even the region will perform traditional Greek dances in costume.
“There will be dancing during the day from noon to 6 and dancing in the street from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.,” Kefalas said.
Live musical entertainment includes Apollonia, one of the top Greek groups in America. Also featured are Tony Pearce on his keyboards and bouzouki, playing both traditional and modern Greek and American music.
Kefalas calls the festival a real family affair with plenty of food and fun for everyone.
“I won?t miss a moment of it,” he laughed. “Fortunately, I?m not on the clean-up committee. I?ve got to be in the office early Monday.”
The Festival
» What: The Saint Nicholas Greek Folk Festival
» Where: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 520 S. Ponca St., Baltimore
» When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
» Admission: Free
