PHOENIX – Valley residents can experience the spirit of the Mediterranean without getting on a plane this weekend. That’s right, it’s time for the Original Phoenix Greek Festival 2024.

The 63rd annual edition of the popular tradition will take place Friday through Sunday on the campus of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

The venue is located at 1973 E. Maryland Ave., west of State Route 51 between Bethany Home Road and Glendale Avenue/Lincoln Drive.

The family-friendly event takes place on Fridays from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday opening hours start two hours earlier than in previous years.

What is there to do at the Original Phoenix Greek Festival?

The Original Phoenix Greek Festival draws large crowds each year with its offering of food, drinks, live entertainment and shopping.

An indoor cafeteria-style food line and outdoor stalls offer a variety of foods including leg of lamb, moussaka, spanakopita, dolmades and various desserts.

In addition to beer and wine, adults can also enjoy a selection of ouzo, Greece's most popular alcoholic drink.

In addition to food and drinks, the festival features live music, dance performances and dance classes, as well as vendors selling jewelry, ceramics, art and more.

There is also an area with rides for children (wristbands available on site).

For a quieter experience, the church's cathedral is open for self-guided tours at certain times.

How much do original Phoenix Greek Festival tickets cost?

Admission to the 2024 Original Phoenix Greek Festival is $5 per person and children under 12 are not admitted. In addition, adults over 60 years of age have free entry on Saturday before 3:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.

Entry, food vendors, vendors and bars will accept both cash and credit cards this year.

Parking in the church parking lot costs $10 (cash only), but there is also a free shuttle service that runs every 15 minutes from the Charles Schwab office parking lot on the southwest corner of 24th Street and Lincoln Drive.

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