GreekFest returns to the Assumption Cultural Center Aug. 18-21. The event usually welcomes about 10,000 people from metro Detroit.
By: Maria Allard | St. Clair Shores Sentinel | Published August 7, 2022
ST. CLAIR SHORES — An annual tradition is back at the Assumption Cultural Center.
GreekFest returns this month and promises four days of culture, authentic Greek food, live entertainment, dancing and more. GreekFest co-chairs Tom Thomas, George Dallas, Bob De Waele and Nick Moschouris invite everyone to “experience traditional Greek culture with a community spirit.”
“GreekFest is a wonderful event that our entire community looks forward to annually,” Thomas said in a prepared statement. “Over 250 volunteers from Assumption and the community really enjoy serving the thousands of people who visit us each year. We have something for everyone; it is truly a family event.”
Hours for the popular festival are 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 18; 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 19; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 20; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 21. Assumption Greek Orthodox Church/Cultural Center is located at 21800 Marter Road in St. Clair Shores on the Grosse Pointe Woods border.
The annual event brings in about 10,000 people from metro Detroit. Regular admission is $2, and children younger than 12 are admitted free of charge. Free parking and shuttle service are available. Portions from this year’s will benefit the Ukrainian Children’s International Orthodox Christian Charities Fund and also Cass Community Social Services.
The festival kicks off at 5 p.m. Aug. 18 with a grand opening ceremony in which community leaders will be recognized. Throughout GreekFest, a variety of bands will get the crowd on their feet performing Greek music. Assumption dance groups in costume will entertain, including the Hellenic Society for the Performing Arts. The event also will include daily tours of the church.
Bring your appetite because Greek cuisine is on the menu, including kabobs, spinach pie, lamb shanks, stuffed grape leaves, pastitsio, flaming cheese, Greek salad, Coney Island hot dogs and gyros. Assumption members already have started making homemade Baklava, custard rolls, Greek breads and cookies, and Loukoumades. A “taverna” will be on site for adults ages 21 years and older.
Carryout service also will be available. The drive-thru hours are 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call ahead at (586) 596-6326 or (586) 779-8071. View the menu or order online at assumptionfestival.com.
Detroit Tigers mascot Paws is scheduled to make an appearance, and kids can enjoy inflatables, a giant slide, games, magic, puppet shows, face painting, stilt walkers and a balloon man.
Those who like to shop can peruse through an indoor marketplace. Vendors from the U.S. and Greece will have Greek iconography, art, photography, jewelry, oil paintings, handmade crafts, home accessories, imported women’s clothing and more for sale.
For information on GreekFest, call (586) 779-6111 or visit assumptionfestival.com.