Opa! It’s time to sing, dance, eat pastries, and set cheese on fire at LA’s Annual Greek Fest. St. Sophia Cathedral will once again host this spectacular event. The cathedral building is available for tours during limited hours. Tonight the festival kicks off at 5pm and closes at 11pm. Saturday, Sept. 6th it runs from 12:00 noon – 11:00pm and on Sunday, Sept. 7th, it is open from 12:00 noon – 10:00pm. Celebrities in attendance will include Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, Nia Vardalos (the star of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”) and Mayor Garcetti. But for us, the real stars of the show are the Greek doughnuts topped with honey and cinnamon.
Events include live Greek music, homemade Greek food, folk dance, raffle prizes, ouzo, Cathedral tours, and games for the kids. Luz Rios will perform live at the L.A. Greek Fest on Friday Sept. 5th and Sunday Sept. 7th.
As for food, there is a new delight everywhere you turn. Vendors outside tempt, but don’t overlook the church hall where some of the real treats await, like those piping hot Loukomathes (doughnuts). For those of you not familiar with Greek food, let us give you a few recommendations. Patsitsio is a baked pasta with a rich bechamel, similar to lasagne. Saganaki is a Greek cheese served on fire with a slice of lemon. Yes, on fire. There is also Galaktobouriko, a rich, smooth custard between layers of filo, as well as tons and tons of honey-soaked pastries.
Parking is surprisingly easy, but there is a shuttle from Loyola High School if you aren’t so lucky. Tonight admission is free from 5:00pm – 11:00 pm. Sat. and Sun. General Admission: $5 Seniors 65+: $3 Children under 12: FREE
