Throughout the festival, the Minoan Dancers, a company of Greek-American performing artists dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Greek culture and folk dancing will perform traditional Greek dances wearing authentic costumes.

The Minoan Dancers were founded in 1986 by artistic directors Vasilis and Effie Fourakis. The company consists of three performing groups ranging in age from second grade to adult. All dancers are members of the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church. For more information about the Minoan Dancers and the history of Greek Dance, see their website at www.minoans.com.

The Greek Compania Bouzaki band will provide constant entertainment so our visitors can partake in the fun. Just grab someone's hand and join the circle, you'll pick up the steps in no time. But just in case you need an extra tip, our performers will be providing dance instructions throughout the day.

Greek life is expressed in songs and dance. The music of Greece falls into two main categories: folk or regional music and popular music. The folk music is divided into the mainland music and the music of the islands. Popular music is often referred to a "Bouzouki" music emerging from the seaport tavernas and spreading quickly to all parts of Greece.

With the rhythm of song must go the movement of dance. It is most common to see the men of Greece performing the intricate steps and movement of a slow moving, turning twisting Zeibekikos which is a stately war dance originally performed with a sword and shield. The dance circle around each other fighting a fanciful battle as the music unfolds.

The Hassapikos, contrary to modern versions was to be performed by men only since it was originally a butcher's dance. This is followed by the Hassaposervikos, wielding knives as they whirled to the fast and often strenuous tempo.

The Kalamatianos is performed in a circle and originated in the Pelponnesian district of Kalamata. The leader performs bravura turns, twists and jumps while the other dancers follow in smooth moving rhythmic steps.

The Syrtos dates back to the Hellenic period with its smooth flowing movements reminiscent of the classical era of ancient Greece.

There are many, many more Greek dances. Each region and area has its own traditional dancers and costumes which have evolved through the years, but have been retained for everyone's enjoyment as part of our Greek heritage.