St Barbara Greek Festival - 42nd Annual Glendi

🇬🇷 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!

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Host or Publisher Sarasota Greek Festival