Immigrants from Greece began arriving to the Northwest in the late 1800s to work in fishing, lumber, railroad and other jobs. Moving to a new and larger church on 32nd and NE Glisan in 1952, the mortgage had to be paid off. The women of Holy Trinity decided to help by holding a bazaar featuring their handwork, food, pastries, music and dances from their homeland. This was the beginning of what is
now known as the annual Greek Festival. The Portland Greek Festival is celebrated as the largest Greek Festival on the west coast with more than 15,000 people attending. Each year the festival organization increases food and pastry preparation to meet the ever-growing popularity of the Festival. This cultural experience features Greek food, music, dance and shopping. The Agora - the Greek marketplace features imported merchandise, clothing, jewelry, icons, flokati rugs and cookbooks. Among the fabulous food, exclusive cooking demonstrations, and exciting entertainment, visitors have the opportunity to also learn about our vibrant Greek community by visiting the Hellenic-American Cultural Center Museum (HACCM) located on the 2nd floor of the church hall. Dressed in imported traditional costumes, Hellenic dancers perform to traditional Greek music, providing an authentic sensory experience for festival-goers. There are four dance groups with over 100 kids and young adults, ranging in age from 5 years to 20 years old. A portion of proceeds from the Greek Festival are proudly distributed to charities and organizations throughout the community.
