Opa!: Holy Trinity's Greek Fest Is Back and Bigger Than Ever

If you're looking for something to do in Westfield throughout the next few days, no need to worry.

The Greek Festival at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, which kicks off Thursday, will provide three full days of food, fun and entertainment.

The headline entertainer for the event is Greek comedian Evangelos Petros Tsarouchas who recently appeared on Showtime.  He will perform Saturday night. On the same day, celebrity chef Paul Delios of FoodU.com and At the Greek Table will be demonstrating his recipes in three live cooking demonstrations. Fotios Stamos, a contributory wine editor for Odyssey Magazine, will be offering an educational wine seminar.

"It's a new rebirth. A new look to the whole event," said festival chair Peter Ladas.

Ladas said the festival has been going on for about 45 years but wasn't held the last two years because no one took on the responsibility.

Ladas, who's a lifelong member of the church, decided to step up to the plate and not only take on the task but give the event a new energy by adding high profile entertainers and an array of activities.

The event will feature live Greek music and Greek dancing lessons. On Friday they will hold a dance called Zorba's Dance Night from 7pm-11pm.

And, of course, let's not forget about the food – the baklava, gyros and souvlaki.  Attendees can enjoy food and wine under a large taverna tent, which Ladas called a "monster outdoor food tent." All of the food is homemade, staying true to the theme of the festival – "Celebrating a Taste of Greece."

"We want to welcome one and all, not only to the Fest but to our beautiful church during their visit," said Fr. Peter Delvizis, presiding priest of Holy Trinity.  "Come experience the 'warm heart of Westfield' and Greek hospitality at its finest – there is nothing else like it anywhere."

Saturday will culminate the list of guest entertainers. Comedian Tsarouchas will perform at 9pm. Delios will be doing his food demonstrations at 2pm, 3:30pm and 5pm. Also making an appearance Saturday, author Robert Krantz, who wrote "Falling in Love with Sophia," - a coming-of-age story that showcases a Greek-American family's blending of traditional values and customs, with the cultural differences of modern American society. Krantz will be signing books Saturday afternoon.

Ladas said he's thrilled about bringing such an exciting event to Westfield and hopes that neighboring residents come to Westfield to enjoy the festivities.

"I hope that we get the weather and the turnout from surrounding towns," Ladas said.

The Fest and church are located at 250 Gallows Hill Rd in Westfield.  Free parking and shuttle service will be offered throughout the event.  The Fest will run 11am-11pm on Thursday, June 3, Friday, June 4 and Saturday, June 5.  Admission is $2.00. Kids under 12 will be admitted free of charge.

Tickets to the comedy show on Saturday at 9pm are $15 in advance.

For more information on the festival, schedule of events and tickets visit www.njgreekfest.com