Birmingham’s Annual Greek Festival Returns to Celebrate Food and Culture
Birmingham, AL –
The vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Greece will once again fill the streets of Birmingham as the 51st Annual Birmingham Greek Festival takes place from October 3 to 5, 2024. This beloved local event is set to transform the Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral and its surrounding area into a lively hub of cultural celebration, complete with delicious food, lively music, and traditional dance performances.
Running from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily, the festival is one of Birmingham’s most significant cultural happenings, drawing residents and visitors alike to savor the contributions of the Greek community to the Magic City—especially within its famous food scene.
In the spotlight this year is festival chairman Teddy Hontzas, who co-owns the iconic Niki’s West restaurant with his brother, Pete. Teddy is rallying the community to join in a celebration that has become a staple of Birmingham’s fall traditions.
What to Expect at the Festival
Food lovers will be thrilled by a mouth-watering menu that includes a variety of traditional Greek dishes prepared from scratch by parishioners. From feta and feta-and-spinach pitas priced at $7 for four, to hearty entrees such as souvlaki at $21 and Greek chicken for $19, attendees will find plenty of options. Vegetarian choices like a vegetable plate at $17 and a Greek salad for $13 are also available. Don’t forget to try some of the famous Greek pastries like baklava and honey-dipped Greek donuts.
For those on the go, the festival conveniently offers a drive-thru service, allowing guests to enjoy festival flavors without having to leave their vehicles. Drive-thru hours run from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the festival.
Entertainment and Activities
The festival is not just about food; it also features live music and performances that capture the spirit of Greek culture. The highlight of the festival is the traditional Greek dances performed by children from the Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Cathedral. Young dancers range in age from 4 to 18 and will perform nightly at 5 p.m. on the outdoor main stage. Guests can expect an array of lively dances that promise to entertain attendees of all ages.
Additionally, visitors are invited to explore the Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the fourth oldest Greek Orthodox parish in the Southeast, through self-guided tours available between 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the festival. Parishioners will be on hand to answer questions and share insights about their rich heritage.
Supporting the Community
The Birmingham Greek Festival is not only a celebration of culture but also a platform for giving back to the community. In the past, the festival has contributed significantly to local charities, donating $10,000 in 2023 to organizations like Children’s of Alabama. This year, proceeds will benefit Firehouse Ministries, First Light Shelter, and Urban Ministry.
Free secured parking is available for guests in the former Liberty National building parking deck, located conveniently on Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard between Third and Fourth Avenues South, ensuring easy access to all the festival festivities.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Birmingham Greek Festival invites you to dive into a world of delectable flavors, vibrant performances, and community spirit. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the tradition and legacy that the Greek community has woven into the fabric of Birmingham.
For More Information
For those interested in more details about the festival, including dish descriptions or scheduling a group tour, local residents are encouraged to connect with the festival organizers or check the event’s official communications.
As the leaves begin to change this fall, Birmingham can look forward to the annual celebration that not only highlights delicious food but also fosters a sense of community through culture and charity.
