Dear Friends & Patrons:

It is a joy to welcome you to the annual Oakland Greek Festival sponsored by the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension! Every year, with great anticipation, we look forward to opening our church grounds, kitchen and hearts to our beloved community. Thank you for making this celebration of heritage and culture all the more bright. As you will taste, hear and see, our annual festival reflects the local foods, dances and customs of Greece. Our sincere hope is that your experience will be uplifting and memorable, and give you appreciation and insights about our heritage.

The activity of the Festival revolves around the reason we are rooted in Oakland: Christ and His Church which was planted here over one hundred years ago. We invite you to “come and see” (John 1:39) and hear the living tradition of the Church in our architecture, ecclesiastical art and hymnody offered by our Liturgical Choir. Across the centuries our culture and Faith have become woven together, and we hope you find this reflected in our hospitality, joy and love.

Enjoy the weekend, rejoice in the fellowship, try something new, and get up and dance! We look forward to this as much as you!

With love in Christ,

Fr. Thomas J. Zaferes

Father Thomas J. Zaferes

Fr. Nick Mueller

Father Nick Mueller & Family

Program Coordinator/Copy Editor FROSENE PHILLIPS Designer STEPHANIE LEAL