MANASIS revives Greek culture at Moomba Parade after 31-year absence

·

For the first time since 1994, Greek culture made a triumphant return to the Moomba Festival Parade, thanks to the efforts of the MANASIS School of Greek Dance and Culture.

The parade, held in Melbourne, Victoria, was a celebration of unity, heritage, and community, with people gathering under the Greek flag to showcase their rich traditions.

moomba parade manasis

“We paraded for our cultural identity, for our biggest supporters, our entire community, and even our most vocal critics—no matter who you are, or where you’re from,” the group stated on social media.

The MANASIS contingent was led by the FROURA Hellenic Australian Honorary Guard, followed by rows of dancers dressed in traditional attire from various regions of Greece. The performance merged elements of a traditional Greek parade, complete with drummers and flag-bearers, with free-flowing ‘patinada’—a vibrant roving dance that brought energy and life to the streets of Melbourne.

moomba parade manasis

Beyond the parade, MANASIS also hosted an hour-long presentation at the ‘Dance Hub’ by the Yarra River, where they demonstrated traditional dances, invited audiences to participate in a Zorba workshop, and ended with a spirited ‘glendi’—an open celebration of Greek hospitality and culture.

The significance of this return was not lost on participants, as nearly all those involved had not been born the last time Greek representation featured in the Moomba Parade.

“Today, we single-handedly broke a 31-year drought, bringing back Hellenic representation to one of our country’s biggest cultural festivals,” the group remarked proudly.

moomba parade manasis

The Moomba Festival, known for its theme of inclusivity and celebration, has been a staple in Melbourne since 1955, attracting over 100,000 attendees annually, with the 2025 event expecting approximately 1.4 million visitors. The parade itself was televised on Channels 9 and 9Now, ensuring that those unable to attend in person could still witness the revival of Greek culture at Moomba.

moomba parade manasis
Dimosthenis Manasis (left) with Sooshi Mango.

MANASIS Director and Instructor, Dimosthenis Manasis, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I stand in awe of everyone involved in today’s event through MANASIS and our FROURA, and I hope you’re all as proud of our students as I am.”

Recognising the responsibility of representing not just his school but the broader Greek Australian community, Dimosthenis also extended an open invitation to dancers, musicians, and students from Melbourne’s Greek cultural organisations and language schools to join future events, including this year’s Greek National Day parade.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Australia’s Cypriot communities to mark 51 years since Turkish invasion of Cyprus

Cypriot communities across Australia are preparing a series of events to mark the 51st anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

From Bexley to Thessaloniki: Dimitri Sidiropoulos’ rise in Greek volleyball

Dimitri Sidiropoulos has has spread his wings and is showcasing his athletic talent in Greece, devoting his full love to volleyball.

STEM holiday program by Greek Community of Melbourne Schools a hit

The Greek Community of Melbourne’s Schools recently completed a successful and engaging educational initiative titled “STEM in Their Element"

Huge comeback win for St George Men’s team

The St George Men’s team faced a massive challenge: a 5am bus trip to Wagga Wagga to take on the formidable Wagga Wagga Heat.

Creditors of Bill Ferg’s Lobster Cave face total loss as rescue bid stalls

Creditors of Melbourne’s iconic seafood venue The Lobster Cave have been warned they are unlikely to recover any of the millions owed.

You May Also Like

Outgoing Ambassador of Greece in Australia honoured with prestigious Grand Cross

Archbishop Makarios of Australia met with the outgoing Ambassador of Greece in Australia, George Papacostas on Thursday, February 22.

Greece and Egypt sign strategic partnership amid regional tensions

Greece and Egypt signed a “strategic partnership” agreement on Wednesday to strengthen political coordination and regional stability.

High olive oil prices worldwide: Are they worth paying?

Olive Oil prices have received an all time high, however studies have shown that it's health benefits are what makes it worth buying.