St Barbara Greek Festival - 42nd Annual Glendi
Schedule
Fri, 20 Feb, 2026 at 11:00 am to Sun, 22 Feb, 2026 at 11:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
7671 Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL, United States, Florida 34243 | Sarasota, FL
🇬🇷 42nd Annual St. Barbara Greek Glendi 2026
Experience the vibrant spirit of Greece at the 42nd Annual St. Barbara Greek Glendi! This three-day cultural celebration is Sarasota’s premier event for authentic Mediterranean food, traditional music, and family-friendly fellowship. Whether you are a regular or a first-time visitor, here is everything you need to plan your perfect "Greek Weekend."
📅 Event Dates & Times
Mark your calendars for three days of festivities in February:
- Friday, February 20, 2026
- Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Sunday, February 22, 2026
- Grand Raffle Drawing: Sunday, Feb 22, at 5:30 PM.
📍 Location & Contact
The festival is hosted on the beautiful grounds of the St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church:
- Address: 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
- Raffle Inquiries: [email protected]
- Official Website: stbarbarafestival.org
🎟️ The 2026 Glendi Raffle (Win Big!)
The highlight of the festival is the Annual Glendi Raffle, offering a chance to win life-changing prizes while supporting the church and its charities.
- Ticket Price: $100 per ticket.
- Availability: Exclusive! Only 2,200 tickets are sold.
- Grand Drawing: February 22, 2026, at 5:30 PM (You do not need to be present to win).
- How to Enter: Purchase online at greekraffle.givesmart.com.
🍽️ Authentic Greek Menus
Prepare your palate for an authentic "Glendi" (party)! The 2026 menu features scratch-made recipes passed down through generations:
- Entrees: Classic Gyros, Souvlaki, Lamb Shank, and Pastitsio.
- Sides: Spanakopita (spinach pie), Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and Greek salad.
- Pastry Shop: World-famous Baklava, Loukoumades (honey puffs), and Koulourakia.
- Greek Taverna: Enjoy imported Greek wines, beers, and Ouzo.
💃 Entertainment & Schedule
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean:
- Live Music: Traditional Greek bands playing the Bouzouki all weekend long.
- Dance Performances: Watch the award-winning St. Barbara youth dance troupes perform regional folk dances in authentic costumes.
- Dance Schedule: Performances take place throughout the day (check the onsite board for specific hourly times).
⛪ Church Tours & Culture
Take a break from the festivities to appreciate the artistry and faith of the community:
- Guided Church Tours: Explore the stunning Byzantine-style architecture and iconography of the St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church.
- Agora (Marketplace): Shop for imported jewelry, icons, Greek groceries, and handmade crafts.
🤝 Charities We Support
Attending the Glendi isn’t just fun—it’s a way to give back. The festival helps support various local and national charities, continuing the church’s mission of philanthropy and community service.
Planning Tips for Attendees:
- Arrive Early: The food lines are shortest during the lunch hour on Friday and Sunday.
- Raffle Tickets: These often sell out before the final day—buy yours online in advance to ensure entry.
- Parking: Follow the signs for designated festival parking areas surrounding the church grounds.
Opa! We look forward to seeing you at the 42nd Annual Glendi!
Where is it happening?
7671 Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL, United States, Florida 34243Event Location & Nearby Stays:
