Enlarge Dancers in traditional costume delighted crowds at the Greek Festival.

Posted: September 15th, 2009 James Willamor

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Greek Festival not just about food, but culture

Thousands took advantage of the good weather over the weekend to get a
taste of food and culture at the Yiasou Greek Festival. The
award-winning festival, held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral in
Dilworth, celebrated its 32nd year.

Attendees from across the city feasted on such Greek favorites as
Gyros, Souvlaki, Kota Pitas, Baklava, and more. A drive-thru line was
set up to serve those who wanted to get food to go.

Greek culture was just as prominent as the food, with traditional
dances and music performed on two outdoor stages.

Inside, traditional Greek artifacts and artwork were on display, including the work of artist Pete Zographos. Vendors also sold items ranging from
jewelry to dresses.

This year’s festival also featured a reenactment of the Changing of
the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

According to event-planners, this ritual by the Ezvones, or Presidential Guards, is a popular tourist attraction at the Greek Parliament Building in Athens.

The Yiasou Greek Festival also worked to show the community a rich
Greek history that goes beyond the one shown by Hollywood.

Dale Grote, UNC Charlotte Professor of Classics, was on hand during the
weekend, giving a series of lectures on classical Greek culture.

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