Need a reason to attend Assumption Greek Orthodox Church’s GreekFest going on Aug. 15-17 in St. Clair Shores?
How about a thousand tasty reasons?
The cooks in the kitchen have been working for weeks to prepare the amazing food that people look forward to every year — like 10,000 grape leaves (dolmades), 5,000 spinach pies (spanakopita) and 5,000 shish kabobs (souvlaki) to 2,000 cheese pies (tiropita) and 1,000 lamb shanks.
“All devoured by more than 10,000 visitors from throughout the Metro Detroit area,” said Joan DeRonne, who is among the organizers of the annual event.
The food is one big reason the summertime event attracts a crowd but it’s also a tradition for the volunteers and participants who work to make it a special event for families, friends and newcomers.
A portion of the proceeds going to Assumption’s programs and the charities it supports including Cops for Kids, Focus Detroit and Cass Community Social Services.
“GreekFest is a wonderful event that our entire community looks forward to annually,” said Tom Thomas, GreekFest co-chair, in a news release. “Over 250 volunteers from Assumption and the community really enjoy serving the thousands of people who visit us each year.”
It all starts Aug. 15.
Rain or shine, everyone will gather at noon for the grand opening ceremony featuring guest emcee Charlie Langton, a legal analyst and reporter for WJBK-TV (FOX 2) along with community leaders.
Also part of the festivities is live entertainment featuring local bands and dancers.
Retired WDIV-TV anchor David Scillian will perform with his band Arizona Son on Aug. 16 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Also providing Greek music throughout the weekend will be Enigma. Assumption dance groups including the Hellenic Society for the Performing Arts with costumes and dances from the regions of Greece. For those who want to join in the fun, performers will be teaching the easy steps of Greek dances throughout the weekend.
Other festival highlights include a drive-thru and carryout express station. Everyone is busy these days and for those who cannot stay or just love Greek food all of the classic dishes prepared by Assumption cooks will be available to go. Hours are Friday, noon to 8 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. Patrons can order food ahead of time all weekend at 586-596-6326 or 586-779-8071. The full menu is available at assumptionfestival.com.
Always a big draw are the kids’ activities including games, magic and puppet shows, jugglers, face painting, stilt walkers and a giant slide. Kids can have fun and parents can watch while enjoying the festive food and atmosphere. Detroit Tigers mascot Paws will be on hand to delight the little ones.
Throughout the weekend volunteers will also provide tours of the iconography by renowned artist Vlasis Tsotsonis that adorns Assumption Greek Orthodox Church. Guests will also learn about “The History of Greektown,” through an exhibit presented by the Hellenic Museum of Michigan.
For those who want to shop there’s the indoor marketplace with vendors from across the U.S. and Greece providing original artwork, photography, jewelry, imported women’s clothing and more.
Also as traditional as the food for the festival is the annual Greek Fest Grand Raffle. First prize: $10,000; second prize, diamond solitaire pendant valued at $3,000 donated by Ahee Jewelers; third prize; $500 and $200 for fourth, fifth and sixth place winners. The drawing is Aug. 17 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 each.
“We have something for everyone,” Thomas said. “It is truly a family event.”
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church and Cultural Center is at 21800 Marter Rd., in St. Clair Shores. For more information visit assumptionfestival.com. Admission is $3 (kids age 12 and under free).
