“Let’s Go Greek Festival”: All roads lead to Parramatta on the 11th of September

“Unleash your inner Zorba and dance to the sounds of the bouzouki” invites the flyer of the “Let’s Go Greek Festival”, which returns dynamically on Sunday, the 11th of September in Parramatta, Sydney. The Festival was borne out of the need for Parramatta’s Greeks to revive the traditional Greek festival and, over the years, it has developed into one of the biggest cultural events of the Greek community in Australia.

The vision for the Festival and its organisers are the people of the Parish-Community of St Ioannis the Forerunner, who every year – apart from a mandatory break during the pandemic – welcome thousands of visitors, Greeks and many others to Parramatta. In fact, the organisers have prepared a program that promises special experiences for both young and old, for they behold the genuine Greek spirit of hospitality and have worked hard and with great passion to ensure a thoroughly organised event.

Like every year, the festival will take place at the premises of the Parish of St Ioannis (165 George St, Parramatta). The festival will begin in the church forecourt immediately after the Dismissal of the Sunday Divine Liturgy, while the events will last until 6:30pm when the curtain will fall with a spectacular fireworks display.

In addition to the program of entertainment, which will include live music and dancing, Greek food tasting will also hold special place on September 11. Visitors will enjoy lamb on the spit, irresistible loukoumades, Greek coffee and many other treats, which will mentally transport them to their unforgettable homeland.

Moreover, there will be many specialty stalls in the market place, which will sell traditional Greek products and gift items. As for the festival’s younger participants, they will be able to choose from a multitude of games and exciting activities throughout the day.

Indeed, the “Let’s Go Greek Festival” could not be without the interesting historical and cultural exhibitions such as, “From a single thread”, “From Hydra to Parramatta”, “The Hellas left behind” etc., which will be hosted inside the Parish facilities.

The President of the Parish-Community of St Ioannis, Mr Kos Dimitriou, speaks of a team effort and also refers to the love of Greek people for their homeland and their adherence to the customs and traditions of their ancestors. “The festival’s success is mainly due to everyone’s commitment to work as a team member,” says Mr Dimitriou, adding characteristically: “The preparation of the festival, every year, is essentially a celebration before the celebration. What I mean is that we work wholeheartedly and with great joy to offer the best that we can to those who grace us with their presence including Australian officials and many visitors from other communities.”

“We are doing the same during this period, in view of this year’s festival,” points out Mr Dimitriou, hastening to graciously thank “all the members of our Community who dedicate valuable personal time and do their best to transform Parramatta into a little Greece in Sydney.”

The President of the Parish-Community of St Ioannis does not fail to mention the important role of the Festival sponsors and supporters, saying: “The festival’s success is due not only to the people of our Community, but is also due to the decisive role played by the sponsors and supporters, who help us practically implement every thought and idea that we have for the festival’s success.”

In closing, Mr Dimitriou invites everyone to add the “Let’s Go Greek, Festival” to their diaries and to be in Parramatta on September 11, assuring them that beautiful surprises and lasting memories await them.