By Anna-Marie Menhenott
news@hometownnewsol.com
ST. LUCIE COUNTY -- The smell of gyros and baklava will permeate the air this weekend as the annual Greek Festival makes its 34th appearance in Fort Pierce.
Keeping with tradition, Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church's junior and senior youth groups will perform customary dance, with full costumes.
"There will be special shows that will share the Greek culture," said Adam Black, festival spokesman. "Those who come to the festival will experience the food, dance, arts and crafts that are a big part of Greek life. There will also be tours of the church available for those who have never seen inside Saint Nicholas'."
Children are welcome at the festival and even have an area in which they can bounce on bounce houses and eat ice cream.
Other food specialties include lamb shank, Greek lasagna, pastries, skewered chicken, the always-popular gyros and delicious baklava for dessert. Adult beverages include beer and wine.
"Lots of people make the festival their stop for dinner. The food is always very popular," Mr. Black said.
The event takes place under a massive tent that covers the entire parking lot. Vendors line the perimeter of the tent selling items such as clothes and jewelry.
Raffle tickets will be sold throughout the event with the winner being announced on Sunday.
The festival is open March 1, 2 and 3. Gates are open from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Sunday. Free parking is available and admission is $3. Children aged 8 and under are admitted free.
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church is located at 2525 South 25th Street in Fort Pierce.
For more information, call (772) 464-7194.