Opa! Experience the Culinary Delights at the Oakmont Greek Food Festival
Bob Zazac and his daughter Mia are keeping a delightful tradition alive by attending the Oakmont Greek Food Festival, a much-anticipated event that transforms Dormition of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church into a bustling celebration of Greek cuisine and culture. Despite the unpredictable weather, rain couldn’t dampen their spirits as they navigated through the tasty offerings this festival has to offer.
A Flavorful Welcoming
As the festival kicked off on Friday, guests were treated to an array of mouth-watering dishes like moussaka, souzoukakia, and pastitso. The indoor seating area provided a cozy refuge from the storm that swept through just before 6 p.m. “We braved the elements to come here,” Bob Zazac shared, emphasizing the sense of community that draws families back year after year.
Mia, with her charming enthusiasm, raved about the festival’s delicious desserts and urged attendees to arrive early for the best parking spots. Families like the Zazacs especially enjoy the friendly atmosphere, which is enriched by the presence of parishioners who volunteer alongside their children.
The Heart of the Community
Volunteering is a family affair at the festival. Kassiani Zeliznik, 11, and her younger sister Phoebe, 10, eagerly took on roles serving fries and preparing pitas for gyros, marking their second year of participation. Their father, Ray Zeliznik, expressed pride in their enthusiasm, saying, “They’ve been talking about this for weeks!” It’s this commitment to community that makes the festival truly special.
Whether stocking drinks in coolers like Matthew, 5, and Anna, 3, or grilling up juicy pork souvlaki, the contributions of young volunteers blend tradition and modernity seamlessly. Panagiotis Mikroudis, another grilling expert, shared the secret to crafting perfect souvlaki: precise timing and attention to detail to avoid burnt skewers.
Back by Popular Demand
This year, festival organizers brought back beloved features, including indoor seating and the baklava sundae. This delightful dessert combines crumbled baklava with rich custards, whipped cream, and cherries, available under the main tent amidst the vibrant atmosphere. Last year’s sell-out of pastitso also encouraged volunteers to whip up extra portions, ensuring that everyone can indulge.
Smooth Operations Despite the Storm
As co-chair Andy Gavrilos reflected on opening day, he praised the resilience of volunteers and patrons as they navigated the stormy weather. “We had a good crowd despite the rain,” Gavrilos noted. Tightening procedures and enhancing efficiency have helped curb wait times, making it a more enjoyable experience for all.
Join the Fun
With ample seating for approximately 1,300 people indoors and additional spaces on the lawn, the Oakmont Greek Food Festival creates an inviting atmosphere for everyone. The event runs from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, serving food until 9 p.m.
Don’t miss out on the festivities—come embrace the joy, culture, and delectable flavors that make this festival a highlight of the year! For more details, check out the festival’s official Facebook page.
Join us this weekend at the Oakmont Greek Food Festival—where every bite is a celebration!
