Organizers of the ‘Glendi’ Festival in Perth have a very specific goal in mind: to break the record of the ‘World’s Largest LiveLighter Zorba Dance’, set at the 2016 edition, when 2,000 people engaged in joyous sirtaki. “We are hoping to break that record, on Sunday 22 April at Elizabeth Quay and maybe set a world record,” they say.

Perth’s ‘Glendi’ Greek Festival returns to Elizabeth Quay on the weekend of 21 and 22 April, with a promise to offer unforgettable moments of energy and vitality to people of all ages. During the weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to taste signature Greek dishes, like souvlaki, gyros, calamari and octopus, while famous pastry chef George Diakomichalis, will create some gastronomic surprises.

Pastry chef George Diakomichalis (left), has gastronomic surprises up his sleeve.

At the same time, festival goers will enjoy greek folk music and traditional dances from various parts of Greece, as well as oriental dancers and a demonstration of plate-smashing.

The festival also includes fun and leisure activities for children, stalls showcasing Greek produce and a bar offering a vast variety of drinks and coffee.

Perth’s Glendi Greek Festival, taking place under the auspices of LiveLighter, a Western Australia program to Australian adults to lead healthier lifestyles, is a cultural platform welcoming and uniting Greeks in Perth.

“The popularity of the two previous editions of the festival reflects Western Australia’s interest in Greek cultur and I’m certain that the upcoming Glendi will surprise and, once again, unite and delight the broader community that wants to celebrate Greek lifestyle,” says Festival organizer Despene Kalaf. Brought up with the ideals of Greek culture instilled in her by her parents and grandmother, Despene Kalaf developed a strong sense of appreciation from very early age. “I believe that it is very important for my generation to embrace the Greek traditions that our forebearers  taught us and ensure that these customs will continue in the future”, she says.

The Glendi Festival will take place on Saturday 21 April (3-10pm) and on Sunday 22 April (11am-8pm).

Entry fee is $2 per person – free for children under 12 years old.

Perth Glendi Association is a not-for-profit organisation.