Many would argue that every day in Oakleigh is a celebration of Greek culture, but the annual Glendi is much more than that.
While the emphasis is on Greek music, performance and food, it is also a chance to acknowledge and enjoy the area’s cultural diversity.
Last year the two-day event attracted over 20,000 people and this year organisers are hoping to break that record.
Taking place over Saturday and Sunday at Warawee Park, there will be an array of food choices on offer from all the Greek and Cypriot favourites (think delicious gyro straight off the spit and sheftalies) to other classics from the Mediterranean.
Attendees will also be treated to free entertainment throughout the weekend, with the Procal Dairies Main Stage featuring traditional music and dance performances by the Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne and Victoria, Akrites Tou Pontou, Glendi Band, OPA – School of Hellenic Dance, Polyxeni and Anagennisi from noon on both days.
The loukoumades eating competition will also return. Competitors will be challenged to eat 30 loukoumades in under 15 minutes, which should be interesting, namely for spectators.
Some of Australia’s well-known and loved chefs on the cooking stage will share tips and tricks. Cooking demonstrations and workshops will start at 1.00 pm and will include presenters such as Philip Vakos from Bahari, The Hellenic Palate, Emelia Jackson, Zoe Konikkos and Nicolette Stathopoulo from Masterchef.
The Glendi will also include a commemoration of Oxi Day and the patron saints Anargiri, Kosmas and Damianos.
Saturday will also feature multicultural acts from around the world.
Along with the entertainment stages and food events, there will be a selection of rides, free face painting, plus a free photo booth and more.
Following the success of last year’s fundraising raffle, this year organisers are giving festivalgoers the chance to win two return flights to Greece courtesy of Hello World Oakleigh, to the value of $4,000. Tickets can be purchased at the glendi, with winners expected to be announced on Sunday evening at the main stage.
There will be limited parking available on site, with free parking available at Oakleigh Central a short walk from the event. The event site is also easily accessed by public transport.
The Oakleigh Glendi will be taking place on Saturday 4 (noon – 10.00 pm) and Sunday 5 November (noon – 7.00 pm) at Warawee Park, Oakleigh. For more information, visit oakleighglendi.com.au/