What’s on the menu at Cairns’ Greek Festival 2025

From souvlaki and baklava to traditional dances and plate smashing, the Far North Greek community will celebrate its 30th annual festival in style. How you can get involved.

The Cairns Greek festival will be held on the grounds of St John's Greek Orthodox Church at Redlynch this Sunday. Eirene Christou, 7, and Leo Christou, 9, can't wait to eat yummy treats like loukoumades and baklava at the Greek festival on Sunday. Picture: Brendan Radke

The Greek community will celebrate its 30th annual festival with food, dance and lots of fun

at the Greek Festival at St John’s Greek Orthodox Parish on Sunday, June 8.

St John’s Greek Orthodox Parish of Cairns chairman Theo Bacalakis said the festival was a great way to showcase Greek culture.

“It’s predominantly about Greek culture but we also have other groups as well from other cultural groups – we have Cypriot dancers coming from Brisbane and others coming from Greece,” Mr Bacalakis said.
“There will be lots of Greek food; souvlakis, yiros, moussaka and honey puffs, and plate throwing.”

Mr Bacalakis said the festival was important to maintaining traditions, particularly for the younger generations.

“In the 50s, you had a lot of migrants coming over, whereas now into third and fourth generation Greek (Australians) so it’s important for them to be able to experience the culture, food, dance and language,” he said.

Greek community member Miranda Wilson said the festival was a great way to celebrate foster connections between older and younger generations, while having an enjoyable day out.

“It’s still very much a community festival – we still have very traditional cooking happening with the older generation,” Ms Wilson said.

“The food, the music, the vibe, it’ll be a great experience when you go there, and for people that aren’t Greek, it’s cool because you get to see the church with it’s beautiful icons and paintings inside, and have a great time.”

Mr Bacalakis said people from all backgrounds were welcome.

“Come along and enjoy Greek food and dancing. It’s one big party.”

Originally published as What’s on the menu at Cairns’ Greek Festival 2025