NJ Greek Fest Ends Today in Westfield

If you haven't had an opportunity to check out NJ Greek Fest, which began Thursday, May 31, at  of Westfield, today's your last chance. The acclaimed and historic Greek Fest starts at noon today and ends at 5 p.m.   

Started over 45 years ago, the Greek Fest has been committed to fostering a cultural tie between Greek-Americans by promoting family bonding, traditional values, and cooking some of the most delicious food in the world. When arriving, it is recommended to grab some moussaka and a side of Greek coffee. 

“Last year, we ran out of food by the fourth day!” says festival participant Ana Savva. 

Last year, over 7,000 people attended the event. That number is expected to increase dramatically due to Fox News correspondent Mike Emmanuel’s annual coverage of the event. Vendors sell accessories and food to the thousands of people who come from all over New Jersey for the special occasion. One vendor travelled all the way from Ocean City to experience the event with close family and friends.

Yet, many people remember the festival’s quaint beginnings. Shops were opened up inside the Church and only members of the church and close-knit friends would join in the activities. However, visionaries like Peter Ladas, Michael Savva and Agapios Kyritsis, saw an opportunity for everyone to collectively celebrate the Grecian ways of life. These three men reached out and were able to create a festival that appeals to everyone while also experiencing Grecian cultural values.

In 2010, the festival officially ventured outside into the expansive Church parking lot where carnival games, moon bounces, and vendors all attract the thousands of people across the state. In keeping with traditional values, Ladas, Savva, and Kyritsis created Yia Yia’s Kouzina, or Grandma’s Kitchen, a live cooking show that schools the public in the ways of Grecian cooking. Performers also gather in the center of the parking lot frequently to sing and dance to traditional music. The interior of the Church still has several vendors present who sell Grecian groceries along with Greco art and novels.

“The main things we honor as a social group are new friendships, fellowship, food, good times, and of course, family," Greek Fest co-chairman Savva said. "It’s fantastic to see everyone come out and experience our culture.”

For more information, please visit the festival’s website at www.njgreek.com .