Greek Fest Offers Great Food, Music and Dancing

Gyros, spanakopita, baklava, music, dancing and more – the 36^th St. Nicholas Greek Festival kicked off Friday afternoon on Andrew Jarvis Drive.

While the heat got things off to a slow start, the festival committee was looking forward to Friday night's live music featuring ORFEAS and continuous entertainment by D.J. Meleti in the outside tent.

Inside the church, patrons of the festival can enjoy an assortment of pastries, shop in a Greek Market, and sit and relax with friends and family in the air-conditioned space. The unique Greek Festival runs through Sunday, and offers something for everyone, both young and old, to enjoy.

The Greek Market, or Bakalico, sells foods sold in Greece, such as stuffed Greek leaves in jars, olive oils, crackers and more. St. Nicholas Sunday School Director Marilyn Zotos said proceeds from the market benefit the Sunday School program and help with the church’s philanthropic work with different charities.

“This festival is all about the culture, the religion and the cuisine,” she said.

New this year is “Festival Express.” Folks are welcome to order food from a take-out menu to take home for dinner or to pack for the beach. Look for the express line set up at the entrance. It will be opened for take-out on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.

Festival hours are Friday, July 13, noon to 11 p.m.; Saturday, July 14, 11 a.m., to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, July 15, noon to 3 p.m. A voluntary donation of $3 per person is appreciated and children under 12 attend free of charge.

The church is located at 40 Andrew Jarvis Drive, near Portsmouth High School. There is plenty of free parking.