🇬🇷 42nd Annual St. Barbara Greek Glendi 2026
Experience the vibrant spirit of Greece at the 42nd Annual St. Barbara Greek Glendi! This three-day cultural celebration is Sarasota’s premier event for authentic Mediterranean food, traditional music, and family-friendly fellowship. Whether you are a regular or a first-time visitor, here is everything you need to plan your perfect "Greek Weekend."
📅 Event Dates & Times
Mark your calendars for three days of festivities in February:
- Friday, February 20, 2026
- Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Sunday, February 22, 2026
- Grand Raffle Drawing: Sunday, Feb 22, at 5:30 PM.
📍 Location & Contact
The festival is hosted on the beautiful grounds of the St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church:
- Address: 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
- Raffle Inquiries: [email protected]
- Official Website: stbarbarafestival.org
🎟️ The 2026 Glendi Raffle (Win Big!)
The highlight of the festival is the Annual Glendi Raffle, offering a chance to win life-changing prizes while supporting the church and its charities.
- Ticket Price: $100 per ticket.
- Availability: Exclusive! Only 2,200 tickets are sold.
- Grand Drawing: February 22, 2026, at 5:30 PM (You do not need to be present to win).
- How to Enter: Purchase online at greekraffle.givesmart.com.
🍽️ Authentic Greek Menus
Prepare your palate for an authentic "Glendi" (party)! The 2026 menu features scratch-made recipes passed down through generations:
- Entrees: Classic Gyros, Souvlaki, Lamb Shank, and Pastitsio.
- Sides: Spanakopita (spinach pie), Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and Greek salad.
- Pastry Shop: World-famous Baklava, Loukoumades (honey puffs), and Koulourakia.
- Greek Taverna: Enjoy imported Greek wines, beers, and Ouzo.
💃 Entertainment & Schedule
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean:
- Live Music: Traditional Greek bands playing the Bouzouki all weekend long.
- Dance Performances: Watch the award-winning St. Barbara youth dance troupes perform regional folk dances in authentic costumes.
- Dance Schedule: Performances take place throughout the day (check the onsite board for specific hourly times).
⛪ Church Tours & Culture
Take a break from the festivities to appreciate the artistry and faith of the community:
- Guided Church Tours: Explore the stunning Byzantine-style architecture and iconography of the St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church.
- Agora (Marketplace): Shop for imported jewelry, icons, Greek groceries, and handmade crafts.
🤝 Charities We Support
Attending the Glendi isn’t just fun—it’s a way to give back. The festival helps support various local and national charities, continuing the church’s mission of philanthropy and community service.
Planning Tips for Attendees:
- Arrive Early: The food lines are shortest during the lunch hour on Friday and Sunday.
- Raffle Tickets: These often sell out before the final day—buy yours online in advance to ensure entry.
- Parking: Follow the signs for designated festival parking areas surrounding the church grounds.
Opa! We look forward to seeing you at the 42nd Annual Glendi!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
7671 Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL, United States, Florida 34243
