Spartanburg Set to Celebrate 31st Annual Greek Festival
Hey friends! We’ve got some exciting news to share for the local folks of Spartanburg. Mark your calendars, because the 31st annual Spartanburg Greek Festival is all set to be held from September 20 to 22 at the historical St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.
Food, Music, and Dance to Steal the Show
The festival, a staple cultural event, is known for its lively ambiance, featuring live music, dancing, and an assortment of delectable food. It’s expected to draw in anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000 people over the three days, just like the previous years.
From well-planned traditional settings serving food both indoors and outdoors, to a nominal entrance fee that contributes to a good cause, there’s a lot on offer for everyone who drops by. Tip: Two of the crowd favorites to look forward to are the Greek chicken platter and the Souvlaki platter with lean marinated pork tenders and rice.
A Place with History
Did you know that the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, founded in 1911, is the only one of its kind in Spartanburg? The existing building at 697 Asheville Highway has been standing tall since 1941. Jon Couchell and Genie Becknell, who are part of the organizing committee, are just as excited as you to bring you this wonderful annual tradition.
A Feast for Foodies
Everyone agrees, the secret ingredient behind the success of this festival through the years is the authentic Greek food prepared by the church members themselves. From Tiropita, cheese-stuffed filo triangles baked to golden perfection, to Dolmathes, seasoned ground beef and rice rolled in grape leaves, the event promises a gastronomic delight like no other.
You can also relish Souvlaki with fresh veggies and tzatziki sauce rolled in a pita, and a creamy Greek yogurt sauce with cucumbers and fresh garlic. “There is not a Greek food-specific restaurant in Spartanburg,” said Becknell. “Some restaurants serve Greek food, but you aren’t going to get what you can here.”
Lending a Helping Hand
Beyond the taste and festivities, a silver lining to be cherished is that a portion of the festival’s proceeds will go to Spartanburg Mobile Meals. Also, due to limited parking, a shuttle service will be provided from Gibbs Stadium at Wofford College, only a few miles from the church.
The festival hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on September 20-21 and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on September 22. Church tours and a Greek market selling dried Greek foods are also on the cards.
“We like getting all of the comments from people that come and love our food, love our friendliness and openness,” said Couchell. Indeed, the appeal and warmth of the Spartanburg Greek Festival barely needs any words.
