Members of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church are once again hosting Augusta’s biannual Greek festival this weekend and inviting all to join in on the festivities.
Located at 953 Telfair St., the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church’s free festival features delicious Greek pastries, such as traditional Baklava and chocolate Koke, and various Grecian performers.
While listening to live music or clapping for young dancers, patrons at the festival can partake in treats made authentically by Grecians as they sip on cold beer or imported wine.
Michelle Ennis, event chairwoman, said the festival opens the doors for the community to partake and learn about Greek culture and traditions by introducing patrons to new foods, music and cultural icons.
“It just gives the community a chance to get together , and we just enjoy sharing the food and opening the doors of our church,” she said. “We want everyone to see what we’re about.”
From hosting the festival for over 30 years, Ennis said members of the Orthodox church have grown closer each year by preparing together for the Grecian event.
“The children practice all year and it’s just awesome to see them grow up together. They start dancing when they’re very young, and they eventually grow into young ladies with a lot of pride in their dancing,” she said. “It just becomes part of who they are.”
By teaching the church’s children about Greek traditions, such as dances and food, Ennis said she believes each grows to understand the importance of one’s cultural roots as it is woven into their personal history.
“It’s important that they remember all the pieces of it and experience it for themselves,” she said.
Embodying savory Grecian flavors, Ennis said ladies of the church work for days in advance to create delicious menu items, which include gyros, lamb sandwiches, salads, orzo, pastitsio and more.
Augusta resident Allen Francis said he and his friends attend the festival every year for its welcoming, joyful and inclusive environment.
“We come every time they have it and we’ve been doing that for years,” he said. “You see all classes, all ages, all nationalities, and everybody is smiling.”
With multiple vendors selling Grecian goods, such as honey, olive oil, wine, body products, clothing and more, Francis said everyone is deeply engrossed
“You see anybody who seems uncomfortable, and they all have different backgrounds,” he said. “You could be waiting in line next to a perfect stranger and by the time you get your food you feel like you’re friends.”
With “unbelievable” dancers, “great” food and quality “inexpensive” jewelry, Francis said the festival truly offers something for everyone to enjoy.
“The price of what you can buy here is so reasonable. It’s so unique and it’s different from anything,” he said.
Several fellow attendees also said they loved the event for its hot, fresh food, in addition to the church’s approachable members.
“I love this event. I’ve been going to this event since I was a young assistant district attorney living in downtown Augusta,” said Augusta-Richmond County’s District Attorney Jared Williams. “I’ve always supported the event and I just really love the Greek fest.”
Out of all the event’s attractions, Williams said he most enjoys the festival’s amazing community engagement, in addition to the feta fries and baklava sundaes.
“I’m so happy to be out here,” he said.
The Greek festival will continue on Sunday, May 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Interested festival goers can also tour the historical Orthodox Church at different times throughout the event.
Tour times are available on Sunday at 1, 3 and 5 p.m. following service at 10 a.m.
For more information about the Greek festival or the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, visit: https://www.holytrinityaugusta.org/greek-festival
