Opa! Paniyiri Festival to bring Queenslanders together in Brisbane
- Paniyiri is Queensland's largest multicultural event and Australia's longest-running Greek festival.
- Attendees will enjoy live entertainment, cultural and cooking demonstrations, and plate smashing competitions.
- A crowd of 50,000 people are expected at the weekend event.
The Paniyiri Greek Festival will return to South Brisbane this weekend, bringing the spectacular sights, sounds, and tastes of Greece to Queensland.
Now in its 49th year, Paniyiri is Queensland's largest multicultural event, attracting more than 50,000 visitors each year.
Festival goers will be able to enjoy traditional dance performances, music, cultural and cooking demonstrations, and stalls selling delicious Greek cuisine.
Visitors will also be able to compete in the ever-popular Eat a Pita, Zorba Till You Drop dancing, honey-puff eating and plate smashing competitions.
The Crisafulli LNP Government is a proud sponsor of Paniyiri, providing $20,000 in sponsorship funding this year.
Supporting events like Paniyiri is one of the many ways the Crisafulli Government is committed to honouring the cultural practices of all communities and celebrating their full participation in our way of life and social fabric.
Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said Paniyiri is an important date in our State's multicultural calendar.
"Paniyiri is pivotal in bringing Queenslanders of all backgrounds together to celebrate the wonderful diverse cultures that make our State such a great place to call home," Minister Simpson said.
"This isn't just about catering for our thriving Greek community – this united celebration is about connection between all Queenslanders, with people travelling from towns far and near to attend.
"Queensland's Greek community has made significant contributions to our political, social and cultural structures – with more than 3,000 Queenslanders born in Greece, and more than 32,000 report Greek ancestry.
"Thank you to all the volunteers who have dedicate their time to delivering this event – and I encourage everyone to ahead along."
Co-Chairman of the Volunteer Organising Committee of Paniyiri Greek Festival, Chris Kazonis said Paniyiri brings people together over two days to enjoy Greek food, dancing and fun.
"The festival is more than a celebration of culture – it's a celebration of family, and our vibrant and culturally diverse community," Mr Kazonis said.
"Everyone involved is incredibly proud the Paniyiri Greek Festival unites people in joy and celebration while shining a light on the success of multiculturalism in our community.
"I can promise whether you're a foodie, a music or dance lover, or simply someone looking for a fun and unique experience, everyone who attends Paniyiri will leave with their hearts as full as their stomachs."
Paniyiri is run by the Brisbane Greek Orthodox Community of St George.
All funds raised during the festival are distributed back into the community, and every food stall in the park is run by various Greek associations and Greek Orthodox parishes, who fundraise for their own charities.
The 2025 Paniyiri Greek Festival will be held on Saturday 17 May from 12 noon to 10 pm and Sunday 18 May from 10 am to 7 pm.
