The Greek Fest has returned to Victoria in its full form after having to operate at a limited capacity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The annual festival, now in its 21st year, highlights popular aspects of Greek culture from traditional dances to world-famous foods.
Peter Doukakis has been volunteering at the event for the last five years and says despite being able to adapt through the pandemic, it’s good to see live entertainment back at the festival.
“COVID’s been a challenge in the past years, but I think as a community we’ve risen up against that,” said Doukakis.
“Of course, having the entertainers back is the best, and I’m really excited that we’re actually able to enjoy the full flavour of it and have it back to pre-COVID standard.”
Doukakis says it’s events like these that keep his heritage alive, especially after being away from home for so long and not having certain loved ones around.
“Well, you know, it’s so important to highlight my Greek culture. Both my parents are gone now and my community is all I have left,” said Doukakis. “I think for a lot of us, it’s the same thing. We’re far from home and we don’t get back home that often.”
The festival will have multiple live performances each day, with iconic Greek dishes like Gyro wraps and Loukoumades also available.
The Greek Fest is happening at the Greek Community Centre next to Commonwealth Place and will run every weekend until September 5th.
Mohammed Hussain
