Thousands of people attended the Brunswick Greek Festival on Sunday, organized by the Greek Community’s St Eleftherios Albion Street parish and run by a team of volunteers.
The festival featured food, music, and family activities, with volunteers serving more than 500 kilograms of lamb and chicken, over 1,000 coffees, and 4,600 honey-dripped loukoumades. Stalls offered sweets and handicrafts, while an animal farm and a local fire brigade display added to the festive atmosphere. Music and dance were curated by community musician John Kostarakis.
The event is part of a broader effort by the parish committee to engage with the local community and families. Bill Papastergiadis, president of the Greek Community, praised the work of the local committee led by Harry Korras and parish priest Fr Gary Peripetsakis, highlighting the festival’s focus on family connections and heritage.
Local federal MP Peter Khalil, along with Merri-bek Mayor Helen Davidson and Deputy Mayor Helen Polites, addressed the crowd, commending the grassroots initiative and its role in bringing the community together. The Lord Mayor also encouraged the committee to explore ways to expand the festival in the future.
Fr Peripetsakis and Korras expressed delight at the strong turnout, noting the festival’s aim to engage residents across Melbourne’s northern suburbs, not only those of Greek background.
The Greek Community of Melbourne, founded in 1897, represents Victoria’s Greek population through education, cultural programs, and advocacy, including the annual Antipodes Festival.