Greek Glendi shines at Canberra’s National Multicultural Festival

·

Canberra came alive with the vibrant sights, sounds and flavours of Greece over the weekend as the National Multicultural Festival once again showcased the rich Hellenic culture through the much-loved Greek Glendi.

Held from Friday, February 7, to Sunday, February 9, the event was a resounding success, drawing thousands of festival-goers eager to experience Greek hospitality, traditional performances and authentic cuisine.

The festival’s Greek presence was powered by dedicated volunteers from various community organisations, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

The Philoptochos Ladies from the local St Nicholas parish and members of the Greek Orthodox Community and Church of Canberra & Districts (GOCCC) delighted the crowd with freshly made loukoumades, while the Canberra Olympic Football Club wowed festival-goers with their succulent lamb souvlakia and lamb souvla. Meanwhile, volunteers from the Cyprus Community of Canberra and ACT served up grilled halloumi and olive pites, providing a true taste of Cypriot tradition.

Greek Glendi Canberra Multicultural Festival
Greek Glendi Canberra Multicultural Festival

The Greek Glendi was officially opened on Sunday, February 9, by Attorney General and ACT Minister for Government Business Tara Cheyne MLA, a longtime supporter of the event. Also in attendance were ACT Multicultural Affairs Minister Michael Pettersson MLA, Ambassador of Greece to Australia His Excellency Stavros Venizelos, and High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, who addressed the crowd with inspiring speeches. John Loukadellis, President of GOCCC, was also present.

Greek Glendi Canberra Multicultural Festival
Greek Glendi Canberra Multicultural Festival

The opening coincided with International Greek Language Day, adding a meaningful cultural dimension to the celebrations.

Entertainment was a highlight of the Greek Glendi, with the Canberra Hellenic Dancers captivating audiences with their spirited performances. Their dazzling display of traditional Greek dance left spectators cheering, while the beloved local Greek band KEFI ensured the festival atmosphere remained electric with their infectious live music.

Greek Glendi Canberra Multicultural Festival
Greek Glendi Canberra Multicultural Festival

As the National Multicultural Festival wrapped up for another year, the Greek community reflected on a weekend filled with joy, community spirit and cultural pride. With its overwhelming success, anticipation is already building for next year’s Greek Glendi, promising yet another unforgettable celebration of Hellenic heritage in the heart of Canberra.

*All photos supplied by John Loukadellis.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Cyprus’ Chief Scientist strengthens research and innovation partnerships in Australia

Cyprus Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides has completed a week of high-level meetings in Australia, strengthening innovation ties.

2025 HMSA Gala Ball to support Agapi Care Inc. in Melbourne

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia and the Greek Community of Melbourne will host the 2025 HMSA Gala Ball on Saturday 11 October.

Panathinaikos basketball legends set to inspire at GOCNSW Saturday Greek School

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW has announced a once-in-a-lifetime visit from the legendary Panathinaikos Basketball Club.

‘The heartbeat of Prospect’: Hundreds gather to honour barber John Giatras

The Prospect community has farewelled barber John Giatras, remembered as the “heartbeat of Prospect,” at a funeral service in Thebarton.

Former SA Prosecutor Stephen Pallaras recovering in hospital after accident

Former SA Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Pallaras KC is in hospital after an accident last Friday, his campaign team has confirmed.

You May Also Like

South Australians enjoy tribute to Greek music legend Stelios Kazantzidis

Different generations in South Australia were brought together at a recent tribute concert to Stelios Kazantzidis by the band Tri Zorba.

Antonella Care elected as new Football Victoria President

Football Victoria elected their first ever female president, Antonella Care, in their 2021 Annual General Meeting on Wednesday. Care was elected for Presidency unopposed...

NSW Police push ahead with probe into Bill Papas and Forum Group

NSW Police’s Financial Crimes Squad is pushing ahead with a probe into the founder of Forum Group, Bill Papas.