TUCSON, AZ – The annual Tucson Greek Festival is coming back after a six-year break, celebrating Greek food, culture, and community.
Hosted by St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, and the Tucson Greek community, the Festival will take place on Friday, November 14, at a new location, at 43 East Congress Street in Downtown Tucson.
Held for one day only, from 4:30 to 10:30 PM, the highly anticipated Greek cultural event will showcase the sights, sounds, and authentic flavors of Greece.
In an interview with The National Herald, a member of the Tucson Greek Festival committee, Alexia Demitsas revealed how it felt to have the annual event return, after being last held in 2019.
“It feels incredible. The festival has always been a beloved tradition for our church and the wider Tucson community, and after taking time to reimagine the event, it’s exciting to bring it back downtown with fresh energy,” Demitsas told TNH.
“As someone who moved to Tucson and has been welcomed into this Greek community, and who has experienced the festival since 2011, it’s been extra special to now see it from the planning side and witness firsthand the true labor of love that goes into making it happen. There’s something so meaningful about seeing people gather again to celebrate Greek culture – the dancing, the food, the laughter – it really feels like coming home.”
Described as an event that’s ‘more than just a celebration’, Demitsas explained how the event is a way of sharing who the Greek community of Arizona is with the wider community, and showcasing the Greek culture and its people.
“It’s about honoring our heritage, our faith, and the g
enerations who built this community,” she said.
“We see it as an opportunity to open our arms to Tucson and invite everyone to experience a little piece of Greece right here in Arizona.”
For those who have never been to the Festival before, Demitsas added how they can expect an “unforgettable evening filled with authentic Greek food, live entertainment, and that famous Greek hospitality.”
“Whether you come to dance, eat, or just soak in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone – it’s vibrant, joyful, and welcoming to all ages.”
To make the Greek Festival extra special, they will also have a variety of entertainment on offer, which includes the Greek singer Evangelia taking the stage and headlining the Festival, and there will be a variety of local Greek dancing groups also performing.
In an interview with The National Herald, the Greek singer revealed how she really looked forward to performing at the Tucson Greek Festival this year.
“Performing for the Greek community in the U.S. always feels like coming home. There’s such a special energy when we all come together to celebrate our shared roots,” Evangelia told TNH.
“What makes this weekend even more special is that I’ll also be performing at Dusk Music Festival in Tucson. It feels amazing to share my Greek heritage and sound on stages that aren’t typically used to hearing Greek music. I’m proud to represent our culture in both spaces, one that celebrates tradition and another that reaches new audiences through global sounds.”
There will also be retail experiences where visitors can explore shopping booths and view cultural displays, as well as connect, dance, and celebrate with family, friends and the community.
If you’re after a Greek feast, prepare to enjoy a Greek feast where you can enjoy authentic Greek gyros, spanakopita, flaming saganaki, Greek sweets, wines, beers and refreshments.
Alexia Demitsas expressed what she most looked forward to about the Tucson Greek Festival in Arizona.
“Seeing the community come together downtown for one night of pure joy,” she said.
“There’s nothing like hearing the music start, watching the crowd form a circle, and seeing Greeks and non-Greeks alike dancing hand-in-hand. That moment always reminds us why we do this.”
She encourages all to come along for a great evening of Greek culture, food, and entertainment.
“Come with open hearts, hungry stomachs, and dancing shoes! Whether you have Greek roots or you’re just ‘Greek for a day’, this event is about joy, connection, and community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you,” she added.
“We’re grateful for the continued support of Tucson, our incredible volunteers, and our sponsors who help make this event possible. The festival reflects countless hours of dedication, creativity, and community spirit – every bite, every dance, every smile embodies the heart of “philoxenia,” or
Greek hospitality. We hope everyone leaves feeling like part of our extended family.”
For more information about the Festival, visit Tucson Greek Festivals site at www.tucsongreekfestival.com or check out their Instagram and Facebook pages @tucsongreekfest.
