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Semaphore Greek Festival 2025: A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Unity

Adelaide, SA – 20 January 2025 – The Semaphore Greek Festival 2025 wrapped up last night, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories of vibrant Greek culture, food, music, and community spirit. Held over the weekend of 18 and 19 January at the picturesque Semaphore Foreshore, the festival brought together an astounding 40,000 people despite the hot daytime weather, with perfect evenings setting the stage for lively celebrations.

This year’s theme, “Όλοι Μαζί” (It Takes a Village), resonated throughout the event, emphasising the importance of unity, togetherness, and cultural pride. Hosted by beloved TV personality and Executive Pastry Chef George Diakomichalis, the festival delivered two days of non-stop entertainment, delectable cuisine, and joyous traditions.

Festival Highlights

  • Unforgettable Entertainment: Xara Dimitriou and Band Enosis captivated audiences with live music, turning Semaphore Foreshore into a dance floor under the stars.
  • Traditional Experiences: From the crowd-favourite “Who Loves Pita” competition to energetic traditional dance performances by groups from across South Australia, every activity celebrated Greek culture with authenticity and flair.
  • Culinary Delights: Festivalgoers savoured iconic Greek dishes like Yiros, Lamb Kontosouvli, Spanakopita, and Loukoumades, lovingly prepared by local chefs and volunteers.
  • Family Fun: Activities like plate smashing and the Yiros Yiros Oli competition brought smiles to kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone felt part of the festivities.

Key Attendance and Community Impact

Despite the heat, the event welcomed a record-breaking 40,000 attendees, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm and commitment to cultural celebration. Proceeds from the festival will support local initiatives and help preserve Greek heritage in South Australia, continuing the mission of the Greek Orthodox Community of the Nativity of Christ, Port Adelaide & Environs.

Distinguished Guests

The Semaphore Greek Festival was honoured to welcome a number of dignitaries, including:

  • The Honourable Mark Butler MP, Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care.
  • The Honourable Steve Georganas MP, Federal Member for Adelaide.
  • The Honourable Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia.
  • The Honourable Dr Susan Close MP, Deputy Premier of South Australia.
  • The Honourable Zoe Bettison MP, Minister for Tourism and Multicultural Affairs.
  • The Honourable Joe Szakacs MP, Minister for Police and Emergency Services.
  • The Honourable John Gardner MP, Member for Morialta representing Hon Vincent Tarzia, Leader of the Opposition.
  • The Honourable Jing Lee MLC, Independent Member of the Legislative Council.
  • Her Excellency Ms Alexandra Theodoropoulos, Consul-General of Greece in South Australia.
  • Ms Luisa Greco, Chair of the South Australian Multicultural Commission.
  • Mayor Claire Boan, Mayor of the City of Port Adelaide Enfield.
  • Councillors Steve Vines, Peter McGregor, Lazaras Panayiotou, and David Wilkins, of the City of Port Adelaide Enfield.

A Special Message from the President: 

“On behalf of the Semaphore Greek Festival, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and made this event a resounding success. To our 300+ incredible volunteers—your dedication, passion, and hard work truly embody the spirit of community. Indeed, it takes a village to create something this special, and you all brought that to life.

We are deeply grateful to the South Australian Government and the City of Port Adelaide Enfield for their generous support, which helped us showcase the rich culture and traditions of the Greek community. Together, we’ve created lasting memories and celebrated the vibrancy of multiculturalism in our region. Efharisto!

Looking Ahead

Mark your calendars for next year’s Semaphore Greek Festival! Until then, we invite everyone to continue celebrating the spirit of “Όλοι Μαζί” in their own communities.

Stay Connected: For more information about the festival and upcoming events, visit www.semaphoregreekfestival.com.au.

Join Us in 2026! We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year for another incredible celebration of culture, community, and unity.