Opa! Yiasou Greek Festival returns to in-person event this year

CHARLOTTE — Greece is the word in Charlotte this week as Greek traditions take center stage at the Yiasou Greek Festival, a tradition that began in 1978 and has since become one of the city’s largest annual cultural events.

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After operating as a drive-thru only event in 2021 and being canceled in 2020 because of the pandemic, organizers will welcome back festivalgoers this year from Sept. 9-11 at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral at 600 East Blvd.

The festival features three stages of entertainment, authentic Greek cuisine and homemade pastries, rides, live music, wine tastings, arts and crafts vendors and Hellenic cultural exhibits.

Hours are from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets cost $5 for ages 13 and older. Children ages 12 and younger are admitted free and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Street parking is available but will be limited. Free parking is also available all weekend at 400 East Blvd. after 5 p.m. on Friday.

For more information, go to yiasoufestival.org.

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