Break a Plate: Greek Fest is Back in Action

by Tiffany Frazier | Oct 13, 2022

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Opa! After a two-year hiatus from in-person festivities, Norfolk’s Greek Festival is making its full-fledged festival debut this month! The event, hosted by the members of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, is the region’s oldest and largest ethnic festival under one of the area’s most enormous tents. The church members have been hosting this historic event for over 30 years, and it has become a Norfolk staple that the community looks forward to every year. From the infamous loukoumades to traditional Greek dancing, this event will have all the Greek traditions the Hampton Roads community has missed for the past few years. While the event historically runs in the spring, the community voiced their longing for its return. The hosts listened, and here we are. What better way to celebrate the changing seasons than with some delicious comfort food and Hellenic culture?

Highlights to Hit at Greek Fest

The Greek Festival provides ample opportunities to learn about and experience the rich culture of Greece through the various vendors and exhibits at the festival. But several aspects have earned a reputation as unforgettable staples visitors travel from far and wide to relish.

The loukoumades are one of those highlights; bite-sized, fluffy, sweet honey balls, aka Greece’s version of a heavenly donut. These pillowy pastries are handmade by the event volunteers and deep-fried to golden and crispy perfection. You’ll want to stock up because one will not be enough once you have a taste.

While the loukoumades are possibly the most recollected fare that festival visitors seek, the savory menu is just as note-worthy, offering authentic Greek classics such as spanakopita, pastitsio, and souvlaki. These mouth-watering indulgences only begin to scratch the surface, and chances are you’ll fill up before you have even had the opportunity to try the entire spread.

Another festival highlight is the traditional Greek dances throughout the event. Dancing is a large part of Greek culture and tradition, so this is the perfect opportunity for them to shine and share their passion. Greek music accompanies the performances. The skilled individuals you’ll see onstage are members of the local community.

Visitors can explore the marketplace inside the Hellenic Center to peruse handmade goods representative of Greece. The marketplace will transport guests into what it’s like to walk the aisles of an authentic Greek marketplace. From the jewelry and paintings to specialty olive oils and desserts, everyone’s sure to find a souvenir.

The Norfolk Greek Festival will kick off on Thursday, October 13th at 11:00 am and continue through Sunday. See the complete list of details below:

When:

Thursday from 11 am – 9:30 pm

Friday from 11 am to 10 pm

Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm

Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm

Where:

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral

7220 Granby Street

Visit their website or Facebook page to learn more about the event.

Tiffany Frazier

Ghent, NFK

Tiffany grew up in Chesapeake but has called Norfolk home for the past seven years. She fell in love with the city while working with Festevents during college summer breaks. She graduated from James Madison University (Go Dukes!) with a degree in corporate communication. Tiffany now works as a digital marketing specialist and enjoys strolling and rollerblading her way around Norfolk. She lives in Ghent with her husband Trevor, and their two cats, Tux and Joe.