Saint Demetrios Greek Festival
Our first annual Festival was initiated by the visionary, Father George Papadeas, soon after his arrival as our priest in April of 1975. Motivating a tiny group of select leaders, he brought this momentous task to fruition on the first weekend in December of the same year. Thousands came to participate in the weekend event that set the format that is used today.
Daytona Beach Mayor Larry Kelly lit the Olympic-style torch at the steps of City Hall as the police escorted a relay of runners who ran to the steps of the Community Center for the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The festival workers had prepared for months to provide food and pastry, plants and handicrafts, icons, etc., while groups of young Greek folk dancers entertained the appreciative guests with their tireless performances. Church tours gave thousands the opportunity to receive a guided explanation of our Orthodox religion and our church.
The Festival has become a yearly event, with the exception of the year that our church was consecrated in 1977 and in 2020 due to the COVID-19.
The format has changed somewhat over the years but the Greek Festival continues to grow and has become one of Daytona Beach's famous cultural festivals. It is always held on the 2nd weekend of November. Come and enjoy our delicious authentic Greek foods and pastries, live music and entertainment and our beautiful waterfront setting. Our parish members and volunteers look forward to sharing in the celebration of life and our Greek culture.
