Jake Romphf
Sarnia’s festival of all things Hellenic next month is expected to be the largest in its 12-year history.
Greekfest is held in the municipal parking lot beside Scotiabank in the downtown core between Christina and Front Streets. When it returns Aug. 3-5 the festival will spill out onto Christina, from Cromwell to Lochiel streets, allowing for more venders and a larger kid’s zone.
“Downtown is a great location,” said coordinator Ashley Tanguay. “You’re in a fun, happening area.”
This Greekfest will be another celebration of culture, music and food.
Vendors will have jewelry, art and handmade items for sale, while the larger kid’s zone — which is free — features inflatable bouncy castles, slides and obstacle courses.
One of the event’s big attractions is the food. The menu will be pretty much the same this year with souvlaki, cheese pies and meatballs, with the addition on Saturday of dinner platter options.
And once again, Greek dancers and Irish dancers will perform in traditional costume.
“We’re still going for a multicultural flair,” Tanguay said.
The parking lot stage will be busy with Greek bands and local acts, including the Mythos Band, Sarnia Kitchen Party Band and a family enchanted princess show on Sunday with Kira Jade Nixon.
Friday night kicks things off with DJ Phatfingers and a toga party, with collections taken up for St. Joseph’s Hospice.
Last year, Greekfest attracted more than 8,000 festivalgoers, 3,000 more than in 2016.
Tanguay said she hopes the crowd to grow another 15% to 20% this year.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Sarnia Greekfest
WHAT: Family friendly celebration of Greek culture
WHERE: On Christina Street, between Cromwell and Lochiel
WHEN: Friday, Aug. 3, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 4, noon to 11 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 5, noon to 5 p.m. For a full schedule, visit sarniagreekfest.com