The 37th Antipodes Festival brought Melbourne’s Lonsdale Street to life, transforming the historic Greek precinct into a vibrant celebration of Hellenic culture. The Antipodes Festival ignites Greek culture & demands justice for Parthenon Marbles.
Organised by the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), the festival attracted over 100,000 visitors, immersing them in a weekend of music, dance, food, and cultural festivities.
As the largest Greek festival in the global diaspora, Antipodes continues to honour the deep cultural roots of Greek Australians while infusing new energy into the heart of Melbourne.
Powerful Advocacy for the Parthenon Marbles
A standout moment at this year’s festival was the powerful call for the return of the Parthenon Marbles. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, making her debut appearance at Antipodes, delivered a passionate speech advocating for their repatriation. Describing the Marbles as a “priceless treasure” and “a stolen part of Greece”, she declared, “They are more than artifacts; they are a precious part of Greece… a precious part of the Greek soul, and they should be returned to complete the majesty of the Parthenon.” Her heartfelt appeal resonated with the crowd, reflecting the deep cultural significance the Marbles hold within the Greek Australian community
Premier Allan’s speech also highlighted the importance of multiculturalism in Victoria, celebrating the contributions of Greek Australians who have shaped the state’s identity. She acknowledged how the festival bridges generations, from the elders who have preserved their heritage to the younger generations carrying forward their cultural legacy. Her unwavering support for Greek traditions and her advocacy for the Marbles received enthusiastic applause, underscoring her government’s commitment to multicultural values.
Celebrating Hellenic Culture and Tradition
From early Saturday morning, Lonsdale Street was bustling with excitement as families, friends, and visitors gathered to celebrate Greek culture. The festival showcased a rich tapestry of traditional and contemporary Greek music, dances, and gastronomic delights. True to tradition, the festival kicked off with the exhilarating ‘Zorba Til You Drop’ dance competition, a crowd favourite that challenged participants and entertained onlookers. The National Bank of Greece, a key sponsor, proudly supported this event, adding to the festive atmosphere.
This year, the festival featured performances from numerous dance groups and bands, including the Alphington Grammar Choir, Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne and Victoria, Flambouro Philanthropic Society of South Australia, and the Pontian Association of Whittlesea “Panagia Soumela”. The diverse lineup celebrated the vibrancy of Greek culture, uniting generations through music and dance.
Expanding the Festival Experience
To accommodate the growing popularity of the festival, nearly 100 stalls were set up, offering everything from exquisite Greek jewellery to authentic delicacies and cultural displays. For the first time, the food stalls expanded to Russell Street, providing festival-goers with an even greater variety of Greek flavours. The bustling market atmosphere enhanced the cultural experience, allowing attendees to explore the rich culinary traditions of Greece.
A Testament to Community and Heritage
Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the GCM, officially opened the festival alongside a distinguished lineup of guests, including Honourable Jacinta Allan, Hon. Nick Staikos, Kat Theophanous MP, Hon. Steve Dimopoulos, and His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora. Their presence highlighted the significant impact of the Greek community on Melbourne’s multicultural landscape.
In his opening address, Papastergiadis emphasised the importance of preserving Greek culture and heritage within the diaspora, stating, “The Antipodes Festival is a celebration for the entire community. From traditional music and dance to new bands and fresh sounds, our goal is to cater to the tastes of all generations and continue showcasing Greek culture within our diaspora.”
Uniting Generations and Cultures
The 37th Antipodes Festival was more than just a celebration of Greek culture; it was a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of the Greek Australian community. Through music, dance, food, and cultural advocacy, the festival united generations, inspired pride, and strengthened the bonds of community. As the call for the return of the Parthenon Marbles echoed through Lonsdale Street, the festival reaffirmed its role as a vibrant cultural beacon, bringing Greek heritage to the forefront of Melbourne’s multicultural landscape
