Festival marks milestones
At Albany’s St. Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church annual festival this weekend, attendees can eat delicious, lovingly made food while knowing those calories are consumed to support great causes.
St. Sophia’s energetic congregation supports community in countless ways.
It hosts homeless families via Family Promise when it transforms its beautiful church into a welcoming home with congregants offering yummy suppers and breakfasts and comforting conversation.
On Saturday and Sunday, help St. Sophia’s celebrate its 50th anniversary with Greek dishes, dancing, music and shopping (20
local vendors) at 440 Whitehall Road.
The church is celebrating its 100th birthday and this is also the 50th anniversary of the popular
festival.
Yes, there will be nutty, honeyed baklava, souvlaki and gyros galore, almond-flavored butter cookies and Finikia (honey
dipped spiced cookies sprinkled with finely chopped nuts). All your favorite Greek dishes will be there, from spanakopita (spinach, feta filled pastry) and moussaka to roast chicken flavored with oregano and roast spring lamb seasoned with garlic and rosemary. There are special treats including Greek coffee, Greek wine and a baklava sundae.
There’s also eye candy that is a treat for the soul—-free tours of the church’s sanctuary with shimmering icons and frescoes.
Hours are noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. (The festival began Friday. )
Extra parking is available at the Center for the Disability Services at 314 S. Manning Boulevard across the street from St. Peter’s Hospital. A free shuttle will take you to and from the festival. Adults get admission for three days for just $5. That buys you a wristband to get you in and out of the festival all weekend. Kids under 12 are free.
The weather forecast looks promising for the weekend. There are tents for outdoor dining and tables indoors, too, so don’t worry about rain or sun.
Phone: (518) 489-4442 for more information.