On the grounds of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Egg Harbor Township, preparations are underway for their annual Greek Fest. The four-day event is set to welcome tens of thousands of guests from across the region and beyond. From delicious food to amusement rides, fireworks displays, and an open-air market, the festival has something for everyone.
For the past week, volunteers and community members have been hard at work inside the church’s kitchen preparing the delectable desserts that will be served the entire weekend, including homemade Baklava and Galaktoboureko, and Koulourakia, a golden cookie twist topped with butter. Our cameras were there to witness the baking up close.
One of the parishioners, Faten Dib, has been aiding up-and-coming church volunteers with the baking process. “This year we are organized into groups, so every group would be in charge of doing one kind of dessert,” she said. “We’re preparing for the next generation or the next group to lead.”
The annual Greek Fest is renowned for its array of mouthwatering food. Those attending this year’s event won’t want to pass up the Gyro stand, where each dish includes slices of beef, lamb, or chicken, topped with tomatoes, onions, and Tzatziki sauce on a warm pita bread. Vegetarian options are available as well.
While you are there, check out the selection of exotic platters, including the Shish-Kabobs, and Moussaka, an eggplant dish with meat, potatoes, and creamy bechamel.
Each day of the event will feature an incredible lineup of entertainment. Attendees can enjoy Greek dancing from its junior and adult dance groups throughout the weekend, while DJ Khan will be spinning all your favorite Greek tunes starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday night. Amusement rides will also be open throughout the duration of the event, with special discounted ride tickets all day Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Attendees will also be treated to a dazzling fireworks show that will light the night sky on Thursday and Sunday evening. Daily church tours will be offered daily at 6 p.m., along with plenty of raffle drawings, a 50/50, and more.
An event as large as Greek Fest takes plenty of planning and organization. Parishioner Athena Sacco credits the countless staff and volunteers who dedicate their time to make Greek Fest a success. “It is a big event; we can’t do it alone.”
Over the past several years, Holy Trinity has been on a mission to rebuild its existing sanctuary. To date, their Capital Campaign Project has over $3.9 million and is $300,000 away from being fully funded. “We are almost there”, says Dib. “That is why these fundraisers are very essential for us to keep going.”
Since its founding in November 1982, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church has been rooted in serving the community. The philanthropic work of the Philoptochos Society has increased steadily over the years, welcoming new members regularly and supporting various charities throughout South Jersey. Dib says the parish’s goal is to serve the community. “We are so grateful for the visitors that come from all over; they come specifically to support us and to taste the delicious food.”
The Holy Trinity Greek Festival will take place on Thursday, June 4 – Sunday, June 7. The event will take place Thursday and Friday from 5 – 10 p.m., Saturday 12 – 11 p.m., and Sunday 12 – 10 p.m. The church is located at 7004 Ridge Avenue in Egg Harbor Township. Admission is only $1 at the door and children under 5 are free, and there will be plenty of free parking for all who attend.
For more information, including a complete event schedule and food menu, visit www.holytrinityeggharbor.com.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
