Do the words baklava, paximadia or loukoumades make your mouth water? Can you taste the buttery honey soaked goodies by just thinking of them? How about that little gooey bit of sweet syrup that lingers on your fingers just after picking up one of these delicious goodies? Close your eyes, come on. Think of licking that little bit off your fingers and savor the memory from this past spring's GreekFest, located at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on Race Street in downtown Charleston. There's good news to be shared, folks! The 2nd Annual Greek Fall Festival is happening again this year from October 4-6th!
The gyro tent will be rocking out with 10 registers open and serving the best gyros in town. A lamb/beef blend, served on a warm pita straight from the grill, topped with onions, tomatoes and the freshest tzatziki sauce in Charleston can be paired with seasoned Greek fries or a homemade Greek potato mixture. Greek potatoes are grilled with onions and peppers then tossed into some special flavorings that you will only find at either of the Church's festivals during the year. Tender chicken or shrimp gyros are also available, and you can always try a pork souvlaki skewer on the side. Hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken fingers will also be available for those more interested in traditional American fare.
Spend your day listening to some of the best Greek music on the East Coast. Nick Trevalis, along with George Antonopoulis and Joanna, will have you dancing with the Greek Dancers. Trevalis spins his mandolin skills into a fun and energizing set, and you can watch the young dancers perform their well practiced routines in traditional Greek dress. The folks at the Gyro tent are always having a good time and can often be heard clapping, yelling and singing along with the musicians and in support of the kids. (Ouzo might have something to do with that, but then again - it could be the Greek wine or beer that serves to keep us hydrated in the long hot days.)
Speaking of Greek wine, did you know they do wine tastings? Stop by the tasting tent and try each of the Greek wines and learn how to pair them with your favorite meals. Try the Agiorgitiko, a nice red with black cherry undertones. Or perhaps, taste a Xinomavro, another red with firm tannins and a fruity punch. An Athiri or Assyrtico, iighter white wines, will refreshen your palate before heading back to decide which of your favorite desserts you'd like to take home.
A full schedule of events follows. Mark your calendar! This is always a good time.
Friday Oct. 3rd
4pm-10pm
Food Service / Pastry Sales
4pm-10pm
Live Music – “A Night in Athens” featuring Nick Trivelas, George Antonopoulos & Joanna
7pm
Greek Dancers (Hellas, Icarus)
4pm-9pm
Greek Wine Tastings (two locations)
Saturday Oct. 4th
11am-10pm
Food Service / Pastry Sales
11am-10pm
Live Music – “A Night in Athens” featuring Nick Trivelas, George Antonopoulos & Joanna
1pm & 4pm
Greek Dancers (Hellas, Icarus, Kyklonakia, Pegasus)
12noon-9pm
Greek Wine Tastings (two locations)
7pm
Greek Dancers (Hellas, Icarus)
Sunday Oct. 5th
10am
Greek Orthodox Church Service
12noon-4pm
Greek Wine Tasting (two locations)
12noon-5pm
Live Music – “A Night in Athens” featuring Nick Trivelas, George Antonopoulos & Joanna
12noon-6pm
Food Service / Pastry Sales
1pm & 4pm
Greek Dancers (Hellas, Icarus, Kyklonakia, Pegasus)
