San Francisco celebrates 73rd annual Greek Festival

This weekend, the San Francisco Annunciation Cathedral in the Mission District is hosting its 73rd annual Greek Festival, celebrating Greek culture through food, music, and dance. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. today through Sunday, inviting people from diverse backgrounds to partake in the festivities. Vicky Spachis, a festival volunteer and head chef, emphasizes her strong ties to the church and community, having been baptized there and wanting to preserve her heritage for future generations. Father Angelo Pappas, a Greek Orthodox priest, underscores the importance of community engagement at the festival. He encourages attendees to immerse themselves in the culture, highlighting the joy and connection that the event fosters. The festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange, allowing visitors to experience the richness of Greek traditions. Spachis, a first-generation American with Greek roots, expresses her commitment to passing down her cultural heritage to her children. She believes in the significance of maintaining traditions and the sense of belonging that the church community provides. The festival is not just a celebration of Greek culture but also a means of strengthening familial and community bonds. With free admission, the festival stands as a vibrant celebration of Greek heritage, welcoming not only the Greek diaspora in the Bay Area but also anyone interested in exploring and enjoying the traditions of this rich culture. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and cultural pride.