By Amelia Tarallo
Hometown Weekly Special Correspondent
The Greek word “philoneskia” translates into "friend of a stranger.” This philosophy was the idea behind Saint Mark of Ephesus’ third annual Greek Fest. Saint Mark's parish welcomed visitors to enjoy two wonderful days filled with food, drink, laughter, and entertainment.
Within hours of starting, the parking lot reserved for the festival was filled.
Saint Mark’s annual Greek Fest serves to both introduce the Westwood community to the culture and raise money for renovations of the church. The renovations include the construction of a new entrance at what is now the back of the St. Mark’s building. This renovation will help improve how services are conducted.
Many people who attended Greek Fest were not Greek themselves, but were residents of Westwood and other nearby towns. Tours of the church helped teach these visitors about The Church of the Genuine Orthodox Christians of America.
The line for food stretched to the entrance of the festival, as visitors waited to nosh on exceptional Greek cuisine. Spanakopita, moussaka, and galaktoboureko were just a few of the choices available during the celebration. “The lamb is the best I’ve ever had,” said one visitor enjoying the festivities. This year's festival included the new addition of Greek coffee, baklava, and saganaki. Visitors were invited to enjoy their food and mingle under the large white tent decorated with strings of Greek flags. Many people purchased and left the festival with a variety of delicious Greek desserts.
Saturday’s visitors enjoyed listening to live singers, all singing Greek songs, while Sunday’s visitors observed Greek dancing.
Children laughed and shouted as they jumped in the bouncy houses. Cotton candy, popcorn, and crafts entertained children during the festival. Organizers added pumpkin decorating and a craft table for children this year.
The festival was a success because of the effort of parishioners and other volunteers. Everything, from the tent to the food to the bounce houses, were all provided by people who wanted to help support the church. Volunteers staffed the craft table, the food, and bounce houses. Children handed out menus while grandparents helped sell desserts.
“Any way a parishioner can help, they find a way,” said Father George, the resident priest of Saint Mark’s. “It’s truly a community event."
