MARLBOROUGH – Moments after the start of the annual Saints Anargyroi Greek Festival on Sept. 2, dozens of people were already lined up for the food – lamb shanks, lamb and chicken kebabs, Greek pastries, baklava ice cream sundaes, grape leaves and much more.
“The lamb shank is the most popular meal,” said Nick Kofos, one the festival’s sponsors.
He said that hundreds of shanks are sold over the festival weekend.
There were three areas where visitors could purchase a meal – the church’s main hall; a hot dog booth by the children’s play area; and a tent in front of the church where gyros and pork souviaki were cooked and served.
In addition to the food, the festival had Greek dancing, live music and a raffle, along with a merchandise booth. Children’s activities included sand art, face painting and two bounce houses.
Kofos said that his favorite part about the festival, which has been held at the church for more than 25 years, is the community.
“I love how the community rallies behind us,” he said. “It’s a great community event.”
Mary Zouharis, whose father is Greek, grew up with the church.
“It’s a way to get involved with Greek culture,” said the Design and Visual student from Assabet Valley Technical High School.
James Robinson, who’s been attending the church for about three years, said he loves the “diversity of services offered.
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“It’s a very warm community,” he added.
For Father Gregory Christakos, his favorite part of the festival is meeting everyone. However, it does have a downside.
“My voice will be gone in about two hours,” he said.
For information about the church, visit www.stsanargyroi.org.
