Let’s throwback to 1976 really quickly, when a group of Greeks in Brisbane had the humble vision of sharing their culture with the community – fast-forward to today and we have the Paniyiri Greek Festival, Queensland’s signature celebration of one of the most recognisable and loveable cultures in the world. Held over a weekend in May, Paniyiri truly encapsulates the full scope of the Greek living experience. Revellers are treated to the most amazing and authentic food (hello haloumi), dancing, demonstrations and more – starts of the stage, screen and kitchen come together to celebrate their heritage and join in this mammoth weekend of activities.

As well as the usual fun and frivolity going down at Paniyiri, this year sees the introduction of a brand-new food experience within the festival. The Plateia is a dedicated precinct setting up shop beside the Greek Club to deliver punters the closest thing to a traditional Greek experience without having to bust out the passports. The sights, smells and sounds of Greece will come alive with a huge range of authentic fare on offer – the Kafenio has your coffee cravings covered, Zaharoplasteio will be a haven for sweets, two distinct tavernas specialising in meat and seafood will be serving mouth-watering morsels, and the Ouzeri will be pumping out delicious drinks. Add to this the amply stocked selection of vendors around the festival’s Musgrave Park site and you’re looking at one serious belt-busting exercise of culinary exploration.

If you’re down to get in touch with your inner demigod, you can nab tickets to Paniyiri at the gate on both days or in advance through QTIX.