Darwin in the Northern Territory came alive on Saturday, August 30, as the Cyprus Food and Wine Festival transformed the Cyprus Community Hall in Marrara into a vibrant hub of culture, music, and cuisine.
From the moment doors opened at 5pm, crowds poured in to savour the sights, sounds, and tastes of Cyprus. The event was organised by the Cyprus Community of the NT.
Guests were treated to a culinary journey, with traditional dishes such as squeaky halloumi, smoky sheftalia sausages, loukoumades, and meze platters served alongside Cypriot wines.
Families explored activities for children, while friends gathered around tables of food and festivalgoers filled the hall with laughter and music.
The entertainment program began with DJ music before local dance groups took to the stage. The OPA Dance Group and Cretan Dance Group NT performed with juniors, intermediates, and advanced dancers showcasing vibrant steps that lit up the evening.
A lively competition segment, official welcome speeches, and a headline performance by a live interstate band kept the crowd on their feet until late.
Honouring tradition, embracing community
President of the Cyprus Community of the NT, Alexandra Magriplis said the event was about keeping culture alive: “We do this every year in Darwin to celebrate our culture, in a similar way to Cyprus.”
Vice President and Bookings Officer Toulla Patsalou explained the link to the homeland: “In Cyprus, this festival happens annually and runs for one week. They have lots of different wines, taste testing and good music.”
Committee member and former long-serving president Evanthis Fitirikkos, who has volunteered for decades, reflected on its long history: “The wine festival in Darwin has been happening for over 50 years. At the very beginning they used to have it at the Greek Hall next to Saint Nicholas church, before moving it to the Cyprus Community Club around 1984 when it grew.”
A cultural landmark
Supported by the Northern Territory Government, the Cyprus Food and Wine Festival once again proved to be a cornerstone of Darwin’s multicultural calendar.
It brought together food lovers, families, and performers in a celebration that blended the warmth of Cypriot hospitality with the joy of community.
*All photos copyright Georgia Politis Photography
