Melbourne is still enjoying warm days and balmy nights, and what better way to feel closer to Greece than sipping on ouzo, while nibbling on mezethes? 

Palesviaki Enosis of Melbourne is saying goodbye to summer the Greek way, with its annual Ouzo Festival this Sunday 21 February. 

Expected to attract more than 1,500 people, this year’s event will be held in Bayswater, and two buses, one from Delphi Bank in Oakleigh and one from the Degani car park in Northcote, will transport event-goers to the Lesvian village-style panigiri. 

The Lesvos Ouzo Festival has become a staple family event, offering an original sensory experience of Aegean culture. 

From as early as 11.00 am, festivalgoers can sample ouzo all day, celebrating the Greek art of making the aniseed spirit and its prominent production in Lesvos. 

Traditional Greek specialities and stalls packed with mezethes the likes of charcoal gyros, grilled calamari, salads, sardines in brine and feta cheese will be waiting to accompany your drink of choice – Ouzo Mini, Ouzo of Plomari, Ouzo Kefi and Ouzo Barbayannis – all hailing from Lesvos island. 

Entrance fee is $15 per adult, which includes complimentary ouzo and a commemorative ouzo glass. 

There will also be jumpingcastles and backgammon competitions for children, plus live music with the Greek band Rythmos. 

Tickets are now on sale through Trybooking. Under 18s receive free entry. 

Address: 26 Waldheim Road, Bayswater, Vic

Attendees can also take advantage of free buses from: 

Delphi Bank – 15 Atherton Rd, Oakleigh. Departs 10.30 am and 11.30 am to Bayswater, with return back to Oakleigh at 4.30 pm and 5.30 pm Degani Bakery Cafe – 92/3 Separation St, Northcote Northcote Plaza. Departs 10.30 am with return to Northcote at 5.00 pm.