Oakleigh came alive over the weekend as more than 40,000 people flocked to Warrawee Park for the 10th anniversary Oakleigh Glendi Festival — the largest celebration of Greek food, music, and community spirit in the event’s history.
Since its humble beginnings a decade ago, Oakleigh Glendi has grown into one of Melbourne’s most beloved multicultural festivals, honouring Greek heritage while welcoming the broader community to join in the fun. This year’s milestone edition featured an expanded layout that extended beyond the park to include parts of Atherton Road, connecting the precinct to nearby Eaton Mall and creating a lively thoroughfare of food, culture, and music.
A festival overflowing with Kefi
The scent of souvlakia and freshly fried loukoumades filled the air as families, friends, and visitors from all walks of life packed the park. With live music echoing across Warrawee Park, traditional dancers in costume, carnival rides, and children waving Greek flags, the atmosphere was one of pure celebration.
“This is what Oakleigh is all about — connection, pride, and community,” said the President of the Oakleigh Greek Community is Chris Damatopoulos, and we’ve been successful in making it bigger and better.
Youth at the heart of Heritage
Angelica Spiliopoulos-Angsiting, Treasurer of NUGAS and President of the La Trobe University Greek Society, highlighted how such festivals sustain cultural pride across generations.
“These celebrations are part of who we are as Greek Australians,” she said. “They’re not just about Greek heritage but about the identity we’ve built here — second, third, and fourth generations coming together to celebrate community.”
First-Timers and Familiar Faces
For Asimina Drougas of Evlogia, it was her first time as a stallholder.
“It’s been amazing,” she said. “It’s so family-oriented and full of warmth. You can really feel the Greek spirit alive here — in every smile and every plate of food.” there were many new stallholders and thatv was visible as you walked around Warrawee Park.
Music, Fireworks, and Magic
As the sun set over Warrawee Park on Saturday, excitement peaked for Greek singer Christina Salti, who headlined Saturday night’s program with a high-energy performance that had tens of thousands singing and dancing.
Her concert ended with a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the park in a burst of colour that perfectly captured the spirit of Glendi’s tenth year.
A Record-Breaking Weekend
By Sunday evening, organisers confirmed that more than 40,000 people attended across the two-day event — a record turnout that underscored the festival’s enduring popularity.
“It’s overwhelming,” said Oakleigh Greek Community President Chris Damatopoulos. “To see so many people from every background come together — it’s emotional. We thank all of Melbourne for supporting us and for celebrating what this festival stands for: unity, joy, and community spirit.”
The Oakleigh Glendi 2025 reaffirmed its place as a cornerstone of Melbourne’s cultural calendar — a festival that continues to celebrate Greek heritage, Australian diversity, and ten years of unforgettable Glendi magic.
