 St. Spyridon Grecian Festival
(SEE KIDS' FEST INFORMATION ABOVE)
Worcester, Mass., Journey on a cultural odyssey with the Saint Spyridon community as they once again transport you to a Grecian island in the heart of Worcester. Held on Cathedral grounds, this biennial event has a 32-year history and is one of the largest festivals in New England, with attendance in excess of 25,000. This year the Greek Orthodox community celebrates the memory of award-winning local artist Alexander G. Gazonas, a Copley Society Master Artist who was devoted to the festival from the onset and who provided his wonderful art work, which was featured as posters and designs for each festival. In fact, this year’s festival poster was one of Alex’s favorites, the Charioteer of Delphi, and it graces the poster and program book. In addition, the art that will be exhibited in the Tonna Reception Room Gallery is a tribute to Alex’s memory and spotlights stunning and award-winning artwork spanning his entire career.
Opening ceremonies begin Friday, June 6 at 4:15p.m. with Worcester Mayor Konstantina Lukes and city and state officials offering proclamations and resolutions in recognition of the unique contributions the Greek Orthodox community has made in this city. Enter the gates and enjoy the very best of Grecian hospitality and cuisine. Classical and contemporary music provide the perfect atmosphere in which to pass the time in the “Kafenio”, a typical Greek cafe. Enjoy the youth and adult dance ensembles in costume as they weave their way throughout the crowd with their traditional regional dance steps. Even the most discerning palate will find it hard to resist the wonderful aromas from the vast array of savory Greek foods and pastries prepared fresh from the oven. Inside the “Agora”, a bazaar beckons all with a variety of authentic Greek items for sale including jewelry, crafts, books, clothing, icons and more! Cathedral tours, cultural displays, The Living Museum and a Kids Fest round out the offerings for the young and young at heart. On Sunday evening, a raffle drawing at 9:00 p.m. reveals the winner of the Grand Prize, which is the winner's choice of a new Gallo Volvo S-60 Sedan, Mazda CX-9 SUV or Saturn Aura, along with many other prizes. Raffle tickets are available in local businesses as well as at the door during the festival. Still the best family value in Worcester; admission is only $1 with festivities running Friday 5 p.m. to 12 midnight, Saturday 12 noon to 12 midnight, and Sunday 12 noon to 10 p.m. Food, music, dance, art and history weave a vibrant tapestry rich with the history of the Greek culture in Worcester. Be part of the 32-Year family tradition and journey with Saint Spyridon’s 2008 Grecian Festival. Press or media coverage welcomed to cover planning and preparation stages. For more information contact Christina Andrianopoulos at (917) 734-9804, the Cathedral office at (508) 791-7326, or visit our website at www.spyridoncathedral.org.
About Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church was consecrated on May 30, 1954 and elevated to a Cathedral in 1985. The parish is made up of approximately 1,500 families whose stewardship supports such ministries as Youth Activities, Holy Trinity Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and the Orthodox Food Pantry. The Cathedral patron, Saint Spyridon (270-348) was born in Cyprus and is honored in both the Eastern and Western Christian traditions. Saint Spyridon performed many miracles during his life and is known for his great piety, honesty and gentleness.
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