Since the Glendi Greek Festival was moved from Thebarton Oval to the Adelaide Showgrounds, it has arguably never been the same.
This year, however, the festival will return to its old glory at the Thebarton Oval, following a decision made this week by the West Torrens Council.
The Glendi Festival is South Australia’s largest multicultural event, established in 1978 by the Lions Club of Adelaide Hellenic and West Torrens Football Club.
Every year thousands of people, Greeks and non-Greeks alike, turn out to enjoy the best of what Greek culture has to offer, showcased through food stalls, artwork, dance, music and education.
Up until 2008 the Glendi was held at Ellis Park in the city of Adelaide, after which it moved to the Adelaide Showgrounds.
The decision to change locations from Thebarton Oval, according to John Chefalachis, chairman of the Adelaide Glendi Festival Board, was due to erratic weather conditions. By hosting the event at the showgrounds they would be better equipped to facilitate rain or shine, with a main stage indoors.
Now in its 35th year, elected members of the West Torrens Council are excited to announce the festival’s return to its original location.
“It’s a great idea. It’s coming back to where it originally came from” Councillor George Demetriou told Adelaide Now.
The volunteer-run event will take place this year on the last weekend of November and is expected to attract more than 20,000 people, with all funds raised going to Cancer Council SA.
Festival goers will be accommodated with a car park at the neighbouring Kings Reserve, charging $2 per car and all money going back to the council.
The decision to bring the Glendi Festival back to its spiritual home is sure to be an exciting homecoming for the Greek community of South Australia and a date worth marking on your calendar.
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/
