MUST EAT
Loukoumades
Loukoumades, also known as honey puffs, are an absolute must-try for any food lover. These golden, crispy balls of dough are drizzled with warm honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and icing sugar, making for a truly heavenly treat. These Greek delicacies can be found at most stalls including the Pan Macedonian and Spartan tents located in the main park.
Souvla
We’re not for one second exaggerating when we say some of the best meat can be found at Paniyiri. Succulent and grilled to perfection, souvla is the Greek art form of spit roasted meat (we’re drooling just talking about it). This traditional dish is a true feast for the senses, with large pieces of tender meat skewered and grilled over an open flame until they’re beautifully charred on the outside and juicy on the inside. Head to the Cypriot tent up at the Plateia to get your lamb and chicken souvlaki, marinated in olive oil and traditional herb blends, cooked on charcoal right in front of you.
Halloumi
Halloumi – that rubbery cheese that quickly becomes a salty, crispy, melted delight after a quick sizzle on the grill. Many stalls, including the Chios and Olympic FC tent in the main park, will be serving halloumi, grilled to order both individually and in various snack pack bundles. If you’ve had halloumi before and are looking for something new, then ask for a drizzle of honey on top; you won’t be disappointed.
MUST DRINK
Cocktails
Booze it up this Paniyiri weekend with some classic cocktails, but with a Greek twist. The highlight of the menu this year will be a collaboration between The Coffee Club and The Greek Club. Cue the Ouzo Espresso Martini! Enjoy the classic coffee cocktail with a punch of aniseed flavour from the ouzo liquor. It will be sure to have you dancing the zorba all night long.
Epsa Soft Drink
This classic soda imported straight from Greece is sure to quench your thirst and delight your taste buds. Made with natural ingredients, including fresh fruits, epsa will be served in the three most iconic flavours: orange, lemon, and sour cherry. This iconic Greek beverage will be sold exclusively from the GOYA tent in the main park area.
Greek Iced Coffee
Indulge in the iconic Greek iced coffee – the frappe! Whipped, foamy coffee topped with ice and sugar and milk to your liking, the frappe is the perfect refreshing and energising drink to keep you going all night long. Exclusive to GOYA tents in the main park and the Plateia (at the top of the street), the frappe is a simple, yet effective caffeine hit that is sure to awaken your senses.
MUST DO
The Main Stage
Welcome to the heart of Paniyiri, where the surrounding tables are in high demand but the entertainment is sublime. Greek dance groups from various associations right across Australia will be showcasing their unique moves all weekend. Want to get involved in all the action? Never fear, there will be opportunities for you to smash some plates, stuff your face in the honey puff eating competition and even learn how to zorba until your feet fall off!
Side Show Alley
Step right up to the vibrant Side Show Alley located behind the main park at Paniyiri. There will be fun for all, from the little ones to the kids at heart. This lively area is a haven of games, rides and pure thrills.
Cooking Demonstrations
Discover the secrets of Yiayia’s Bougatsa recipe and learn how to maintain a healthy Mediterranean diet. Located upstairs in The Greek club, this is the ultimate destination for bringing the essence of Paniyiri into your own kitchen. The cooking stage will feature talents from all over Australia, including nutritionists showcasing the Mediterranean diet and skilled bakers from Adelaide sharing their expertise on turning feta into a Greek dessert. Elevate your culinary skills and embrace the flavours of Greece. A full programme of the weekend’s cooking shows can be found here.
Trella- Paniyiri’s official afterparty
The fun doesn’t stop at 7pm on Sunday night. Get ready for Trella, the official after party presented by GOYA, taking place on the top floor of The Greek club. This year, prepare to be amazed by an incredible lineup of talented local Greek DJs, refreshing watermelon vodka slushies, live Greek singing and bouzouki. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness how the Greek community truly celebrate.
Haven’t got your tickets yet? What are you waiting for? Head over to the Paniyiri website to grab yours.
