South Australians across the board have welcomed the news that their largest multicultural festival – the Adelaide Greek Glendi – will return to its homeland of Thebarton Oval. The Greek community of South Australia is revelling in the news that they will celebrate this year’s Glendi close to their homes and in the place that first saw the festival prosper.
“It’s fantastic the Glendi is returning back to its original home at Thebarton Oval,” Federal MP Steve Georganas tells Neos Kosmos.
It has been nearly 20 years since the festival was held in the heart of the West Torrens council – which is now one of the most populated Greek council areas outside Greece.
Since its inception, the festival has grown from strength to strength, forcing the organising committee to move venues to accommodate for larger crowds and more stall holders. Until now, the Glendi has been held at Wayville Showgrounds which has seen numbers in the past years dwindle due to the venue. But now with the announcement it will return to Thebarton Oval, many members of the community are relieved, especially the elderly Greek community in South Australia, many of whom can walk to the venue and enjoy the day.
“People will have easy access to the oval, especially our elderly Greek community who will be able to walk there,” says Mr Georganas.
The festival is set to return to its original format – marquees and stalls in a large circle all facing the main stage in the middle. Due to the size of the oval, the festival will be smaller than in recent years, but this will add to the excitement of the weekend.
When asked if there were any international guests that would participate in the Glendi, Mr Georganas was quick to point out the local homegrown Greek Australian talent that will be featured on the day.
“We have so many wonderful and talented musicians and dancers here in South Australia – and Australia – and we should focus on them,” he said.
The Adelaide Glendi Greek Festival will be held on Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December at Thebarton Oval, 1 Meyer St, Torrensville, South Australia, 5031. For more information visit www.glendigreekfestival.com.au/