Held at Saint Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church, the Irvine Greek Fest is a remarkably well-organized annual cultural event, offering the community three days of access to Greek food, drinks, kids’ activities, shops, and educational programming. For many, Greek Fest’s biggest draw will be the wealth of food and drinks – a whole lamb can be seen roasting on a spit between stands dedicated to flaming saganaki cheese, gyros, desserts, Greek coffee frappes, and even ouzo – but the event also includes inflatable climbing walls and slides, cooking classes, church tours, a beer and wine garden, and mini shops selling books, clothing, decor, and jewelry. Dancing begins at some point after the beer, wine, and ouzo start to flow.
Expect to spend a minimum of an hour here, most likely two or three unless you’re in a rush, and consider taking home some balkava, karithopita (spiced honey walnut cake), or ergolavos (apricot almond cookies) from the indoor Pastries shop. Desserts were highlights on our visits; pre-cooked meats served from holding trays – lamb, pork, and sausages alike – tended to be overcooked yet not particularly hot. Admission is $5 per person, with free admission for seniors (65+), children (12 and under), and military personnel/families; if you can find free parking in the neighborhood, you can avoid the church’s $20 flat parking fee.
