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“It symbolizes the efforts of our forefathers who came from Greece and parts of that region and settled in Middletown,” said Niki Nestor McNeely, co-chair of the Greek Fest. “We want to share all of our culture — the food, dance, music, drink, religion and celebrating Greek hospitality — with the rest of the community.”
She said the festival provides 25 percent of the church’s annual budget. “It’s critical,” she said.
The event runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday with a special preview event Thursday night.
Nestor McNeely said patrons can purchase Greek specialties at the Food Court, including Gyro sandwiches. A special meal from the Grecian dinner menu will be served in the air-conditioned church hall. Some authentic Greek dishes include baked fish, roast lamb, Grecian chicken and pastitsio along with side dishes. The Pastry House will offer hand-made Greek specialties including baklava. Pastry orders can be made by calling 513-424-6521 or 513-423-7734.
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Live Greek music will be provided throughout the weekend by George Karras, who will accompany various dance troupes performing traditional Greek dances, she said. Greek wines, draft and bottled Greek beer will be available.
Nestor McNeely said there also will be a Kid’s Zone, and authentic Greek jewelry, belly dancing scarves and costumes, olive oil-based skin care products, eternity lights, and novelty items will be sold. Middletown police officers will offer free child fingerprinting and canine demonstrations, she said.
In honor of the 50th anniversary, the Greek Fest is holding a 5K run/walk, she said. “Zeus On The Loose” will be held at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at Atrium Family YMCA and Children’s Center, 5750 Innovation Drive. Pre-registration with a free T-shirt is $20 for those 18 and older and $15 for those 17 and younger. Same-day registration is the same price but doesn’t include a T-shirt.
To register, go to www.zeusontheloose.com or call 513-218-0155.
HOW TO GO
What: Middletown Greek Fest
When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday with a special preview "Gyros on the Go" drive through from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday
Where: Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 2500 Grand Ave.
How much: Free with street parking and overflow parking is available behind the Shalom Temple on Grand Avenue.
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