You likely will not find more engaging and friendly people than the Greek community.
They are generous and welcoming.
They love calling Fayetteville home.
They have become known throughout Fayetteville and Cumberland County for their Greek cuisine, and they are inviting you to take part in the 36th annual Fayetteville Greek Festival. It’s scheduled from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on September 12 and from noon-6 p.m. on September 13 at their beloved Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church at 614 Oakridge Avenue.
“The Fayetteville Greek Festival is back for another unforgettable weekend of authentic Greek food, live entertainment, and cultural experiences,” said Lia Hasapis, who is a festival co-chair along with Spryo Anagnostopoulos.
Hasapis says she and Anagnostopoulos have plenty of support from others.
“We have a committee behind us,” she said.
The festival is a celebration for sure. About 5,000 attended in 2025, according to Hasapis. There is no charge for admission.
“Celebrating the rich traditions of Greece,” Hasapis said, “the festival invites the entire community to experience the warmth of Greek hospitality while enjoying homemade cuisine, traditional pastries, lively music, folk dancing, shopping, church tours, and activities for all ages.”
The Greek community is proud of its heritage, and they love telling you about it.
Authentic Greek Cuisine and More
Hasapis says festival favorites include the gyros, souvlaki, spanakopita, baklava, loukoumades, and Greek coffee.
You’ll get no argument here.
“This year we are bringing back our Greek Grocery Store that will have authentic items,” Hasapis said, “such as chocolate, honey, olive oil, Greek candies, pastas, and coffee.”
Our Greek friends are going all out this year.
“In addition to the delicious food,” Hasapis said, “visitors can browse unique vendors, shop for Greek imports and gifts, learn about the Greek Orthodox faith through church tours, and experience the vibrant culture that has made the Fayetteville Greek Festival a beloved annual tradition.”
Whatever your fancy, Hasapis says, you’ll find it at the festival.
“We have a Greek jewelry vendor who will be selling unique Greek jewelry and other Greek knickknacks,” Hasapis said.
If you are into art, she says, the festival has something for you, too.
“We also have a Greek painter,” Hasapis said, “who paints very beautiful scenes of the Greek islands.”
The festival also is partnering with the Cumberland County Animal Shelter to raise awareness and support for pet adoptions and shelter programs. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the shelter’s mission and make donations for shelter supplies.
“We are partnering with the Cumberland County Animal Shelter because we decided to showcase a nonprofit that we support and give back to,” Hasapis said. “We are partnering with them to bring awareness to the community about safe pet ownership and pet adoption and serve as a donation site.”
Epilogue
The festival is about more than the Greek cuisine.
“It’s about sharing our faith, traditions and hospitality with the Fayetteville community, while giving back to the community that supports us,” Hasapis said. “The Greek Festival is another great example of the diversity and culture Fayetteville offers residents and visitors, and how fortunate we are to have so many traditions represented right here in our community. And we’re especially excited to partner with the Cumberland County Animal Shelter this year to help make a difference for local animals in need and waiting for forever homes.”
Come hungry, Lia Hasapis said, “and make sure you stop by to see my Papou, Tasos Hasapis, to try his very famous souvlaki.”
Bill Kirby Jr. can be reached at billkirby49@gmail.com or 910-624-1961.
