Greek Festival Long Beach: 2025 In-Depth Guide

Every Labor Day weekend, Long Beach in Los Angeles transforms into a slice of the Aegean thanks to the Long Beach Greek Festival—one of California’s longest-running Greek celebrations. Aromas of sizzling souvlaki drift down Anaheim Road, bouzouki music electrifies the air, and dancers in traditional costume invite you to shout “Opa!”

Whether you’re craving authentic Greek cuisine, curious about Hellenic culture, or simply searching for family-friendly coastal fun, this 75-year tradition is Southern California’s most flavorful send-off to summer.

Opa! Where the Celebration Unfolds

Step into a Grecian village right in Long Beach—blue domes, white tents, and the warmth of tradition await.

The festival takes place at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, located at 5761 E. Colorado Street, Long Beach, CA 90814. The grounds transform into a bustling Grecian village, complete with:

• White-and-blue vendor booths featuring Greek goods and artisan gifts
• Live music on the central stage by The Olympians band
• Shaded courtyards perfect for spanakopita and galaktoboureko
• A marketplace stocked with Greek olive oil, jewelry, chocolate, icons, and more

The parish’s community-driven atmosphere makes this a standout experience you won’t find at larger commercial venues.

Dancing Through the Dates

Circle your calendar for a Labor Day weekend of live music, nonstop dancing, and family-friendly fun.

• Festival Dates: August 30 – September 1, 2025 (Labor Day Weekend)
• Hours: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM daily

Live Greek music, open dance floors, and cultural showcases happen all day. Church docents offer tours of the sanctuary and icons from 12 PM to 6 PM daily.

2025 Sample Schedule Highlights:

• Daily: Church tours, Greek dance group performances, and free dance lessons
• Kids Zone with jumpers, carnival games, and face painting
• Raffle drawings each afternoon
• Opportunity drawing on Monday evening

Who Should Say “Yammas”?

From toddlers to taverna regulars, this Greek festival has something for every appetite and age.

• Families: Enjoy the kid-friendly carnival and games
• Foodies: Indulge in handmade baklava, gyros, lamb, souvlaki, and Mythos beer
• Culture seekers: Take part in cooking demos, Orthodox church tours, and watch travel films
• Music lovers: Dance to traditional and modern Greek tunes
• Couples and groups: Relax in shaded beer/wine gardens under festive evening lights

Admission: Around $5 per person (kids under 12 are often free)

Accessibility: ADA-compliant venue with designated parking

Flavor, Faith & Festivity: What Makes It Special

Authenticity on every plate—handmade dishes, heritage dancing, and heartfelt community vibes set this fest apart.

• All food prepared on-site by church volunteers using heirloom recipes
• Live cooking demonstrations show how to recreate dishes at home
• Expanded Greek marketplace with imported and local artisan products
• Free dance lessons and performances by Greek dance troupes
• Children’s area: Games, rides, face painting
• Docent-led church tours: Learn about Orthodox faith and iconography
• Raffle prizes and opportunity drawings each day
• Community-driven: Proceeds support church ministries and outreach programs

Park Like a Local, Party Like a Greek

Stress-free parking, speedy shuttles, and two-minute drop-offs keep the good times rolling.

• Free parking: VA Hospital lot at N. Bellflower Blvd & Anaheim Rd with shuttle service
• Cal State Long Beach: Free parking with weekend shuttle loop
• Street parking: Meters available on Colorado Street (~ Around $2/hour)
• ADA parking: Reserved spots in church lot (arrive early)
• Rideshare access: Designated drop-off near entrance (under 2-minute walk)

From Fables to Food—Tripster Makes It a Weekend

Why settle for one afternoon of Greek fest fun when you can turn it into a full SoCal getaway? Tripster makes it easy to bundle nearby hotels, harbor cruises, and top Los Angeles attractions—all in one simple itinerary.

Stay at the Queen Mary hotel, grab a Hollywood sightseeing pass, and enjoy real discounts with flexible vacation packages that keep planning light and savings high. Book now and lock in your baklava-filled weekend—before the best rooms disappear like a plate of loukoumades.