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New Orleans Greek Festival 2025: A Golden Jubilee of Hellenic Heritage by the Bayou

May 16, 2025| May 16, 2025 Events&Festivals, World Fest 6 min read

As the scent of grilled souvlaki wafts through the warm Louisiana air and the sounds of bouzouki and traditional Greek dancing echo over Bayou St. John, New Orleans gears up for a milestone celebration. The New Orleans Greek Festival 2025 marks 50 years of rich tradition, community spirit, and Mediterranean flair — and this golden jubilee promises to be more spectacular than ever before.

Set for Memorial Day Weekend, May 23–25, this beloved annual event transforms the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral and its lush bayou-facing grounds into a vibrant slice of Greece — all in the heart of New Orleans.

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A Celebration of Culture, Faith & Community

Since its founding in 1974, the New Orleans Greek Festival has grown from a modest parish event into a regional attraction that draws tens of thousands each year. It honors the city’s strong Greek Orthodox roots, centered around the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the oldest Greek Orthodox congregation in the Western Hemisphere.

But this festival is not just about history — it’s a celebration of life, heritage, hospitality, and joy.

📅 Festival Schedule (2025)

Friday, May 23: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturday, May 24: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday, May 25: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Location:
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral
1200 Allen Toussaint Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70122

Culinary Wonders of Greece

Food is the heart of the Greek Festival — and 2025 will offer the most expansive menu in its history. Prepared with love by parish volunteers and local chefs, the cuisine reflects generations of family recipes.

🥙 Savory Highlights:

Lamb Gyros carved fresh
Souvlaki skewers grilled to perfection
Moussaka layered with eggplant and béchamel
Pastitsio (Greek lasagna)
Spanakopita (spinach & feta pastry)

🍰 Sweet Temptations:

Baklava drenched in honey and spices
Kataifi, Kourabiedes, and Galaktoboureko
Freshly fried Loukoumades (Greek donuts)

Pair your meal with imported Greek wine, cold Mythos beer, or a traditional Ouzo shot — or cool off with a classic Frappe iced coffee.

Music, Dance & Live Performances

At the center of the festival is the main entertainment stage, where the sounds of traditional Greek music fill the air. This year’s headliner, Thymios and His Greek-American Super Band, will return with high-energy live sets each evening.

🕺 Featured Performances:

Hellenic Dancers of New Orleans in full traditional attire
Daily Greek line dancing sessions for all guests
Interactive dance tutorials so you can join the fun — Opa!

Whether you’re clapping along to a Kalamatianos or trying your first steps of a Syrtos, the energy is contagious.

Holy Trinity Cathedral Tours

A highlight of every festival is the opportunity to tour the historic Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Knowledgeable guides provide insight into its magnificent Byzantine architecture, stained glass, iconography, and centuries-old traditions.

Daily Tour Times:

Friday: 8:00 PM
Saturday: 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM
Sunday: 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM

Don’t miss Vespers and Divine Liturgy services, open to the public, offering a moment of reflection amid the festivity.

35th Annual Greek Fest Run & Walk

Start your Saturday strong with a scenic run along Bayou St. John!

1-Mile Kids’ Run: 8:00 AM
5K Run/Walk: 8:30 AM
Entry includes free festival admission, a commemorative t-shirt, and a head start on the Loukoumades line!

Pre-register online and join a community of health enthusiasts who celebrate with food and fun post-race.

Family-Friendly Fun at the Athenian Playground

This is a true family event, and the Athenian Playground ensures younger festivalgoers are entertained:

Inflatables and obstacle courses
Face painting and crafts
Snowballs and snacks for kids
Shaded seating areas for parents to relax nearby

The Agora Marketplace

Bring a piece of Greece home with you. The Agora Marketplace features dozens of local artisans, vendors, and importers offering:

Olive oil, Greek herbs & spices
Handmade jewelry and clothing
Greek books, icons, ceramics, and art
Commemorative 50th anniversary merchandise

Don’t forget to visit the Greek Grocery Tent to stock up on authentic pantry staples and sweet treats.

Getting There & Parking Details

Free parking is available at the former JFK High School parking lot at 5700 Wisner Blvd, with continuous shuttle service to the festival entrance.

Handicap-accessible parking is provided along St. Bernard Avenue.

Note: Admission tickets are available at the gate (cash or card accepted) or online in advance.

🎟️ Admission Info

Adults: $10
Children under 12: Free
Weekend Pass: $25
Military and First Responders: Discounted admission with ID

Admission includes access to all performances, cathedral tours, and free shuttle services.

Why You Should Attend in 2025

The New Orleans Greek Festival 2025 isn’t just another food fair or music event — it’s a cultural pilgrimage. As it celebrates 50 years of tradition, the festival invites everyone — Greek or not — to step into a world where hospitality is sacred, flavors are bold, and music unites hearts.

Whether you’re twirling in a dance circle, sipping wine by the bayou, exploring Orthodox history, or watching your kids chase bubbles in the playground — you’ll find yourself immersed in something magical.