This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
There's no need to get a passport to Greece, as everything you need to relish this Mediterranean culture can be found at Salt Lake City's annual Greek's Festival.
A Utah tradition, and one of the state's largest cultural events, the festival begins its three-day run Friday in downtown Salt Lake City.
The men and women of The Greek Orthodox Church of Greater Salt Lake, led by members of the Philoptochos Society — the women's philanthropic group — have been working all summer preparing for the hungry crowds: filling and rolling grape leaves (dolmathes), skewering pork for souvlaki and layering filo dough and nuts for baklava.
Guests who attend this year's festival — in its 41st year — also can expect lamb on a spit, gyros, cheese-filled triangles (tyropita) and deep-fried dough balls covered in honey (loukoumathes).
While food is the favorite attraction, guests also can tour the Holy Trinity Cathedral and hear Byzantine music, learn a bit of Salt Lake City Greek history and watch dancers in traditional Greek costumes.
Since its inception, the festival has been a fundraising event, and the church continues to donate a portion of the proceeds to local charities and organizations.
When • Friday and Saturday, Sept. 9-10, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, Sept. 11, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where • Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 279 S. 300 West, Salt Lake City
Cost • $3; an à la carte menu of Greek food and drinks additional
Parking • Ride TRAX to the Old Greek Town stop and walk to the festival. Valet service available.
Details • saltlakegreekfestival.com