Go Greek Orthodox or go home - Mediterranean Festival at St. Elias

Go Greek orthodox or go home. The family-friendly St. Elias Mediterranean Festival returns for its 81st year this weekend, packed with live entertainment, traditional dishes, kids' activities and a orthodox bazaar and marketplace.

Now in its 81st season, the event has long been a tradition in town, and the same three families continue to be a driving force behind the planning and execution of MedFest every year. The festival was originally conceived by parishioners as a way to get funding to build the church, one of the first Eastern Orthodox in the state.

Food has always been one of the biggest draws for the festival -- attendees will find dozens and dozens of tasty Lebanese, Palestinian, Eritrean, Romanian and Greek dishes, from spanakopita (a savory Greek pastry filled with spinach and cheese) to to kofta (a Middle Eastern dish made of ground beef, parsley and onions).
It all takes place on the church grounds at 408 E. 11th St. Hours are from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, and noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is via a $5 donation; you can purchase tickets in advance at Twin Liquors or online at the festival's website.
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