Grecian Festival 2008: A 32-Year Family Tradition

Three Days of Grecian Hospitality, Culture and Cuisine

On June 6, 7 & 8, Attracting in Excess of 25,000 Attendees

At Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Worcester, MA

Worcester, Mass., Journey on a cultural odyssey with the St. Spyridon community as they once again transport you to a Grecian village in the heart of Worcester.  Held on Cathedral grounds, this biennial event has a 32-year history in the community and is one of the largest festivals in New England with attendance in excess of 25,000.  This year the Greek community celebrates the memory of award winning local artist Alexander G. Gazonas, a Copley Society Master Artist, who was devoted to the festival from the onset providing his wonderful art work which was featured as posters and designs for each festival.  In fact, this year’s festival poster was one of Alex’s favorites, the Chariot of Delphi and it graces our poster and program book.    In addition, the art that will be exhibited in the Tonna Room Gallery is a tribute to Alex’s memory spotlighting the stunning and award winning artwork spanning his past 40-year career.

Opening ceremonies begin Friday, June 6 at 4:15 with Worcester Mayor Konstantina Lukes, and city and state officials offering proclamations and resolutions in recognition of the unique contributions the Greek community has made in this city.  Enter the gates and enjoy the very best of Grecian hospitality and cuisine.  Classical and contemporary music provide the perfect atmosphere in which to pass the time in the “Kafenio”, a typical Greek cafe. Enjoy the youth and adult dance ensembles in costume, weaving their way throughout the crowd with their traditional, regional dance steps. Even the most discerning palate will find it hard to resist the wonderful aromas from the vast array of savory Greek foods and pastries prepared fresh from the oven. Inside, the “Agora”, a bazaar beckons all with a variety of authentic Greek items for sale including: jewelry, crafts, books, clothing, icons and more!  Cathedral tours, cultural displays, The Living Museum and a Kids Fest round out the offerings for the young and young at heart. On Sunday evening, a raffle drawing at 9:00 pm. reveals the winner of the Grand Prize of a choice of a new Gallo Volvo, Mazda or Saturn automobile, along with many other prizes.  Raffle tickets are available in local businesses as well as at the door during the festival.  Still the best family value in Worcester; admission is only $1 with festivities running Friday 5 p.m. to 12 midnight, Saturday 12 noon to 12 midnight, and Sunday 12 noon to 10 p.m.

Food, music, dance, art and history weave a vibrant tapestry rich with the history of the Greek culture in Worcester. Be part of the 32-Year family tradition and journey with St. Spyridon’s 2008 Grecian Festival. We welcome press or media coverage in our planning and preparation stages. For more information contact Christina Andrianopoulos at (917) 734-9804, the Cathedral office at (508) 791-7326, or visit our website at www.spyridoncathedral.org.

About Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church was consecrated on May 30, 1954 and elevated to a Cathedral in 1985.  The parish is made up of approximately 1,500 families whose stewardship supports such ministries as Youth Activities, Holy Trinity Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and the Orthodox Food Pantry.  The Cathedral patron, Saint Spyridon (270-348) was born in Cyprus and is honored in both the Eastern and Western Christian traditions.  Saint Spyridon performed many miracles during his life and is known for his great piety, honesty and gentleness.