About Us
A CENTRAL NEW YORK TRADITION
FOR OVER 50 YEARS
Syracuse’s Festival of Nations, which began in 1969, increased community awareness of different ethnicities and, by extension, resulted in greater appreciation of Greek culture in Central New York.
The St. Sophia community accurately assessed that Central New York was ready for a deeper exposure to Greek culture.
OUR HISTORY
1969
Syracuse's Festival of Nations inspired Greek Cultural Celebration
1973
The First Greek Cultural Festival at St. Sophia’s was held from September 28-30.
50+ YEARS
A Central New York Tradition
The parish children and young adults practice for countless hours to perfect their dances and provide the much-anticipated entertainment. Live music and singing was performed by the Chris Dimkos Band and, later, The Aegeans.
A FESTIVAL BUILT BY COMMUNITY
Sustained by the love of their faith and culture, many parishioners have worked hard throughout the year to make the festival a success. Chairmen have been Peter Lillys, Jim Sakezles, Ernie Macrides, George Armatas, Gus Kosmas, Chris Tzetzis and Peter Lemoniades.
As a result of their efforts, it has become the most successful church festival in the area, and people mark their calendars months ahead to attend this great event.
People wait in long lines for the authentic Greek food and pastries. The parish priest and some laypeople give tours of the church and explain Orthodoxy to interested visitors.
The festival is truly a showcase for the Hellenic traditions brought over by our forefathers and faithfully continued by our parishioners
