3 hacks for Greek Fest this weekend in Maitland

One of my first-ever assignments for Orlando Weekly back in 2007 was reporting on Greek Fest at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Maitland. Since then, I’ve made an effort to go every year, and it’s always worth it. But there are some secrets I’ve learned in the past eight years for doing the fest the right way. You’re welcome.

1. Come hungry Obviously this would be my first piece of advice because Greek food. From whole-lamb cookery to saganaki (flaming cheese!), there’s so much food at this thing that you’ll be wishing for that second wind faster than you can say “galaktoboureko,” which is not a Harry Potter spell, but is actually a delicious dessert. Speaking of which …

2. Come early Yummy things like galaktoboureko (a milk and honey custard enveloped in phyllo) and other lesser-known and more time-intensive Greek comestibles are gone quickly, so you’re going to want to hit up the food stalls early in order to get the best selection. There’s nothing worse than missing out on the one thing you really wanted to try. Arriving early will also net you a decent parking place because The. Place. Is. Packed. Greek Fest is one of the most popular food and culture festivals in the city, so unless you want to park in Altamonte, be prompt.

3. Bring cash In years past, there’s been an ATM, but the lines for it are always long, so avoid that altogether and come prepared with cash for everything – food, drinks (do yourself a favor and knock back a few Blue Aegeans, a potent azure cocktail made with blue Curaçao and ouzo), handicrafts (there’s a huge craft market with lots of Greek and Greek Orthodox imagery and iconography) and tips. 

The Orlando Greek Fest is this Friday through Sunday at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Click here for more info. 

This article appears in Nov 4-10, 2015.