The Estia Greek Festival in Hobart 2025 has just concluded, and it was a weekend filled with vibrant celebrations of Greek culture.
The event spanned over two days and attracted large crowds eager to experience authentic Greek food, music, and performances. This year’s festival saw the addition of a night market on Saturday, followed by the traditional Greek Festival on Sunday, making it a truly special occasion.
A Highlight of the Weekend: Archbishop Makarios’s Visit
One of the standout moments of the festival was Archbishop Makarios’s visit. He took time to tour the Greek Community and witness a performance by the Hellenic Dancers. His presence was met with warmth and excitement from the community, and his visit underscored the importance of togetherness and tradition.
During an on-camera interview, Archbishop Makarios shared his thoughts on the value of community and the importance of staying connected to one’s heritage. “Community is the opposite of isolation,” he said. “The message of community is that we have to share; share our time, our materials, our smile—share everything.” He also offered advice for future generations: “To stay close to our traditions and to our ethos… We have to keep our identity as Greek and Orthodox.”
Festival Highlights: Food, Dance, and Music
The weekend featured an impressive lineup of activities. Attendees had the chance to enjoy cooking demonstrations, live music, and, of course, a wide variety of delicious Greek food. From classic gyros and souvlakia to loukoumades and BBQ octopus, the festival offered something for everyone. A highlight for many was the performance by the Hellenic Dancers, which brought the vibrant culture to life.
A Focus on the Future: Young People in the Community
One of the most encouraging aspects of this year’s Estia Festival was the involvement of young people. “One of the highlights of this year’s festival was the incredible involvement of young people,” said Manoli Kalimnios, President of the Greek Community of Tasmania. “From performing traditional dances to helping behind the scenes, their passion and dedication give us confidence in the future.”
A Strong Community Spirit
The energy at this year’s festival was palpable. “This festival continues to go from strength to strength, and we can’t wait to build on this year’s success,” said Emanuel Roussos, General Manager of the Greek Community of Tasmania. “The enthusiasm and community spirit were undeniable, and we’re already excited for what’s next.”
“We are overwhelmed by the love and support shown for this year’s festival,” added Kalimnios. “It’s clear that Greek culture continues to inspire and unite people, no matter their background.”
As the Estia Greek Festival 2025 wraps up, the Greek Community of Tasmania is already looking forward to next year’s event, which promises to be even bigger and better.
