The sights, sounds, and flavors of the Mediterranean were in full swing at the annual Greek Festival hosted by Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church in Whitestone last weekend. From Thursday, June 5, through Sunday, June 8, the church grounds at 11-05 150th St. were transformed into a celebration of Hellenic culture, welcoming hundreds of visitors from across Queens and beyond.
A staple of the neighborhood for decades, the Holy Cross Greek Festival has become one of the most anticipated cultural events in Northeast Queens, offering a chance for the community to come together and celebrate Greek heritage, faith, and hospitality. Admission was free, and the festival featured a lively mix of traditional food, music, rides, games, and family-friendly entertainment for all ages.
The four-day event offered a wide range of activities, including a Ferris wheel and carnival-style games with prizes, drawing families and children into the festive spirit. In addition to the attractions, a variety of vendors sold Hellenic jewelry, handbags, accessories, art, and handmade goods, making the festival not just a culinary showcase but a vibrant marketplace of Greek artisanship.
One of the festival’s biggest draws was its authentic Greek cuisine, prepared and served by parishioners and volunteers. Attendees lined up for savory dishes like souvlakia, moussaka, and spanakopita, while dessert stands featured freshly made baklava, loukoumades, and traditional Greek cookies and cakes. Many guests dined al fresco, enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks under the early summer sun.
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church has hosted the festival for decades as both a fundraiser and a cultural touchstone for the community. Rooted in centuries-old Greek Orthodox traditions, the event is a reflection of the church’s mission to preserve and share the richness of Hellenic culture and Orthodox faith with the wider Queens community.
