Opa! Friday marks the beginning of Nashville's three-day Greek Festival at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox church on Franklin Road. For three straight days, you have the opportunity to gorge yourself on Greek specialties from spanikopita, gyros and moussaka, to baklava and loukomades. View the festival menu online to make your plans (I recommend the tiropita and dolmades). Sadly, once again, there is no saganaki (flaming cheese) or vegetarian pastichio (if you guys are reading, trust that this would still sell well without the ground beef!).
I do have a couple of pro tips for you, since I've been attending for more than 10 Â years now. Bring some water (though you can buy it on site) and some moist towelettes or wipes. Things can get sticky. Bring cash, too, because many vendors are cash-only (though there will be ATMs there as well). And definitely take advantage of the option to preorder baked goods so you don't miss the opportunity to purchase your favorites. They are all fantastic, but do not miss the almond crescents and diples.
Aside from the good eats, there is free music and dancing, plus activities for the kids (previous years’ entertainment has included a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting and bounce houses for additional fees). The church’s playground will also be open for kids to play. Additionally, there will be an agora, a Greek-style market with vendors selling Greek-inspired jewelry, clothing and gifts.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox church, and free tours will be available throughout the festival.
10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, and Saturday, Sept. 12
11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
4905 Franklin Pike
Admission: $3 (includes readmission all weekend)
Free admission for children 12 and under and all military, police and fire personnel (with ID)
Parking, onsite and via shuttle: free
