Greek Festival 2026 volunteers Georgia Dimitriadis, Andi Pigeon, and Mary Bellios
The people of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral have presented the annual Greek Festival in Columbia for 39 years. This year’s event was held September 17-20 and has grown over the years to draw crowds of over 150,000 to experience the culture, food, dance, history, and Christian spirit of the Greek Orthodox church.
Reverend Michael Platanis has served as priest of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral for over 18 years and was instrumental in completing the construction and development of the new cathedral at 1931 Sumter Street. He and Assistant Priest Nicholaos Eliadis say the annual Greek Festival is the product of the work of volunteers from the church, Columbia, and outside of Columbia. The Greek Festival is a fundraiser for the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, and part of the proceeds are donated to local charities.
Church member and volunteer Georgia Dimitriadis said the food sold at the Greek Festival was prepared by members of church. The baking of the food begins in July every year. During the festival, church members of all ages performed Greek music and Greek folk dancing. Vendors attend every year to sell art, jewelry, and other gifts. The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral was open for self-guided tours during the Greek Festival.
Chairpersons for the 2026 Greek Festival were Niki Stewart, Steve Bitzas, Nick Callas, and Preston Spivey.
Sponsors for the 2026 Greek Festival include Jim Hudson Automotive Group, AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, LeafHome/LeafFilter, Southern Crown Partners, and Bigger Glass Company.
