Paniyiri, the largest and longest-running Greek festival in Australia, and a global celebration of culture and community returns to Brisbane’s Musgrave Park this weekend.
The two-day event promises to showcase Greek food, dance, music, and art, from a variety of community based groups, offering a unique opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, smells, and flavours of Greece.
Visitors can indulge in traditional Greek cuisine from numerous community based food stalls and cafes scattered throughout the festival. From mouth watering souvlaki and octopus to delectable baklava and honey puffs, there is a wide variety of dishes to satisfy every palate. In addition to the culinary delights, Paniyiri presents a rich program of events including cooking demonstrations, dance performances, and competitions, all showcasing the richness of Greek culture and heritage.
There will also be a tour of the Greek Orthodox Church and other cultural activities for all ages. Festival-goers can also buy raffle tickets for a chance to win two return tickets to Greece. This family-friendly event offers activities suitable for all ages.
Paniyiri originated in 1976 from the passionate vision of Greek Australians who aimed to share their culture and culinary traditions with the wider community. What started as a humble Sunday picnic in Musgrave Park has evolved into an extraordinary two-day festival that attracts up to 50,000 attendees for a weekend filled with cultural discoveries, delicious dining, and lively dancing.
Following the success of its inaugural year, Paniyiri recognised that music and dance would be the heart and soul of this celebration of Greek culture.
Thus, Brisbane’s first Hellenic dance club was established. Since 1978, the Hellenic dancers have been enchanting audiences with their performances, showcasing traditional dances in authentic costumes representing various regions of Greece. Supported by the captivating and soul-stirring sounds of traditional Greek music, their passionate performances have become a highlight of the festival.
When: Saturday, 20 and Sunday 21 May, 12pm–10pm
Tickets: $16.85 for one day or $27.05 for both days. Children under 13 enter free.
