...The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church presents GREEK FESTIVAL 2009 on Friday, September 11; Saturday, September 12; and Sunday, September 13. The FESTIVAL is held on the Church grounds at 500 Belmonte Park North, next to the Dayton Art Institute

FESTIVAL guests will enjoy traditional ethnic specialties such as moussaka, pastitsio, dolmades and the great gyro sandwich. Exquisite Greek pastries, breads, cheese and spinach pies and honey puffs are highlights you won’t want to miss. On the lighter side, the Taverna serves a delicious variety of Greek hors d’oeuvres and salads along with imported beer and wines. Back this year, Greek Pizza with feta and olives and Greek Fries is a special treat.

Food concessions will open at 11:00am on Friday to serve lunch, and will remain open throughout the afternoon and evening. Downtown workers are invited to spend their lunch hour on the FESTIVAL grounds, and then return throughout the weekend with family and friends. Folks who wish to avoid longer lines will want to visit the FESTIVAL in the early afternoon hours on any of its three days.

The GREEK FESTIVAL features a cultural exhibit, live Greek folk music and costumed dance groups, and guests are invited to join in the dancing following a demonstration. Tours of the beautiful Church includes a short presentation on the Eastern Orthodox faith. Shoppers in the Import Boutique will browse through a variety of cobalt pottery, hand crafted items, clothing, religious items, gold and silver jewelry and the popular Greek fishermen’s caps.

Outdoors on the north side of the Church is the area of the FESTIVAL grounds set aside for families. Kids will enjoy special activities and refreshments in the “Zorba Kid’s Zone.” A favorite is the Baklava Sundae booth offers soft-serve ice cream covered with delicious baklava topping.

For those who want to stay cool, try the delicious roast lamb dinner, which is served inside the Main Church Hall. The dinner features lamb shanks slow-roasted in a flavorful sauce, served with rice pilaf, green beans, a Greek salad and crusty bread. A lightly seasoned roast chicken dinner is also available.

ADMISSION to GREEK FESTIVAL 2009 is FREE and FREE SHUTTLE BUS service will be available beginning at 5:00pm on Friday from the corner of First and Wilkinson Streets in Downtown Dayton (PMI Parking Lot), with shuttles running throughout FESTIVAL hours on Saturday and Sunday.

Join us for a delightful weekend of great food, fine entertainment, and warm Greek hospitality at DAYTON’S BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL - Rain or shine!

FESTIVAL HOURS:

Friday, Sept. 11 - 11am to 11pm

Saturday, Sept. 12 - 11am to 11pm

Sunday, Sept. 13 - 11am to 6pm

For further information contact: Church office :: (937) 224-0601