Little Rock's International Greek Food Festival cooks up three days of fun every spring. Presented by Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, it's the largest ethnic festival in Arkansas. Since established, the International Greek Food Festival has raised more than $1 million for charities throughout central Arkansas. There is no admission charge or parking fee. Plan to arrive early for the best selection of food items
Annunciation Church
- Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church of Little Rock was founded in 1913 by Greek immigrants. It is affiliated with the worldwide Orthodox Christian Church which dates back to 33 AD. The parish congregation consists of more than 200 families representing the heritage of 18 nationalities. Church volunteers begin preparations for the food festival six months in advance. The festival culinary offerings reflect the cultural traditions of church members, which include Greek Armenian, Georgian, Romanian, Russian, Indian, Middle Eastern, English and American. These diverse heritages each contribute to the food traditions associated with the Greek Orthodox Church.
Menu
- The International Greek Food Festival lives up to its name by providing a taste of the congregation's favorite recipes. Menu items include Greek souvlaki commonly known as ka-bobs, Greek pastitsio, spanakopita, gyros, roasted lamb and calamari. At the Jerusalem Cafe, festival participants enjoy hummus, tabbouleh salad and falafel. Indian dishes on the menu include rice pilaf, vegetable curry and chick peas with spinach masala. The selection of handmade Greek pastries available at Old World Market include baklava, sourota, kourambiethes, melomacharona and other tasty treats. Many menu items may be purchased at a drive-through station.
Old World Market
- The festival's indoor Old World Market pleases shoppers and browsers with items imported from around the globe. Its array of goods includes items such as Mediterranean silver, jewelry, hand-painted ceramics, dances scarves, Russian nesting dolls, African hair clips, Roman and Middle Eastern coins, European artwork and handmade wooden toys. Crafted items from the Ozarks also are available. For those wishing to recreate the festival menu, or just take home their favorite festival delicacy, the Old World Market sells all the ingredients needed to cook favorite Greek dishes, as well as frozen dinners and pastries.
Activities
- Dancing is a foundational festival activity. Continuous performances throughout the weekend ensure nonstop celebration with an international flair. In the spotlight are Greek dancers, Irish, Indian, Russian, Dutch and Middle Eastern dancers. During festival, the church is open to the public. Daily guided tours offer the opportunity to view Annunciation's iconography and massive hand-carved altar screen and to learn about the Orthodox Christian faith. Children engage in festival fun with special activities, like face painting, crafts, rides, games and a menu designed for youthful tastes.
