Greek Fest Dishes Out Ethnic Food, Culture, and Hospitality

Since the late 1980s, Erieites have flocked to the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church for the church's annual Panegyri festival. This three-day event draws tens of thousands of guests that come to see the Greek dancers, the live entertainment, to buy arts and crafts, experience true Greek hospitality, and to tour the majestic church, as the three-day festival is considered to be one of the city's biggest cultural events.

But, more specifically, they go for the food.

Don't get me wrong – I am not dismissing any of these cultural experiences at all, because they are each amazing in their own way. But I also know Greeks offer some really palatable experiences that we all don't have the opportunity to experience on a regular basis.

Last year alone, it was reported that dedicated volunteers made over 60,000 pieces of traditional pastries – 15,000 of which were Baklava. And while the pastries alone are divine, one cannot escape the gyros, Greek dogs and fries, and other traditional Greek dishes that are not commonplace on our dinner tables. 

Admission is free and the Festival will be held regardless of the weather with sufficient indoor and outdoor space. 

– Rebecca Styn

4376 West Lake Road // Fri-Sun. Hours vary // erieorthodox.org