The Denver Greek Festival

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Last weekend we went to one of my favorite festivals that are held here in Denver, The Denver Greek Festival, which is the first summer outdoor festival taking place in June. Needless to say it was a blast, this festival is so much fun and it was my mother’s first visit which she enjoyed thoroughly.

One of the highlights of the festival is visiting the Cathedral which was built as a gorgeous golden dome on the outside with even more beautiful paintings on the inside. It is BREATHTAKING! And of course, I was so amazed by it again that I completely forgot to take pictures of the inside while we visited. Bummer! But, I have left links for you below to get an idea of what it looks like. I’m telling you, the pictures simply don’t do it justice.

http://www.denver.goarch.org/parishes/photos/Denver/
http://www.behance.net/gallery/Denver-Ecclesiastical-Architecture-2010/860891
http://www.twentyphoto7.com/blog-2/

Another highlight? The food, of course! (Here’s their menu). My husband and I had our usual, the lamb sandwich, which is made of roasted leg of lamb served with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, lettuce and onions on a pita bread. Of course I left out the onions because you know I’m not a big fan of them but it was still melt in your mouth fantastic.

Lamb sandwich with tzatziki sauce


Lamb sandwich with tzatziki sauce

My sister and my niece had the Greek chicken wings which are seasoned with lemon and oregano and are served with tzaziki as well.

Greek chicken wings

For dessert we had our favorite, Loukoumathes, deep fried honey balls that are dipped in honey and topped with nuts, but we always have them without them. The best way I can describe them would be like fried doughnuts drenched in honey. Would it be too cheesy if I say they’re AMAZEBALLS?!

Loukoumathes

And the last item we had, or should I say my mom had, was one of her faves, the good ol’ baklava, and in case you haven’t had one they’re small desserts made with layered filo sheets and walnuts that have been seasoned with cinnamon & nutmeg and then drizzled with honey syrup. A bit too sweet for me, but not for her since she ate it happily.

Baklava

After our big meal we did some shopping, getting some Greek trinkets and a couple of jewelry items. My niece also enjoyed the carnival games, the rougher, the better. And then we ended the night watching some Greek music and dancing. I’m going to be honest with you, I always thought that Colombians were a loud, happy bunch of people but the Greeks sure have us beat on this one! Lots of dancing, lots of clapping, lots of drinking and lots of OPAS!