OKALOOSA ISLAND —As traditional Greek music filled the air, children and a few brave adults danced in a circle in the Emerald Coast Convention Center's ballroom.
Soon after, the children got a chance to take over the mic.
“Opa!” a child yelled before breaking down in giggles.
Everyone got a chance to enjoy the culture Saturday at the 22nd annual Greek Festival hosted by the Saints Markella and Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church. Locals and tourists packed the center to enjoy music, food and shopping.
View a photo gallery from the Greek Festival >>
Some of the food lines reached the width of the ballroom.
Lisa Pelletier and her daughter, Harvest, moved to the area from Boston recently and were happy to see the banner announcing the festival. They came primarily for the food.
“I’m looking forward to a little taste of everything,” Lisa said.
Moussaka, spanakopita, baklava, ouzo and other favorites were served up on plates and cups.
Kathryn Gardner came armed with a list of foods requested by her husband, Peter, who was at home waiting for the Penn State football game. Kotopoula, souvlaki and gyros were on the list.
“He’s just so Greek,” Kathryn said as she threw her hands up in the air with a grin.
Vendors lined the walls and offered everything from jewelry to books to shawls. A bakaliko, or Greek grocery store, sold breads, olives and other sundries.
The festival continues to grow each year, said Cookie Kostopoulos, the event’s chairwoman.
“It provides all the things that make up Greek culture,” said Keith Fletcher, the event’s co-chairman. “Good food, dancing, music and good times.”