Recap: Baltimore’s HonFest and St. Nicholas Greek Festival

The second weekend in June always marks a special time for most Baltimoreans… yes this marks the end of the summer term for most public schools, but more importantly, two of the most fun festivals occur during this weekend – HonFest and the St. Nicholas Greek Festival. Luckily, this year I was able enjoy both festivals… all in one day.

Beehive Hairdos, Leapord Print Spandex, and Eyeshadow

HonFest has been a festival that occurs on Hampden’s “Avenue” since 1994. The whole purpose of the festival is to recapture the flamboyant and spontaneous Baltimorean lifestyle during the 1960s. With “beehive” hairdo’s, leopard print spandex, and a overdose of eye shadow, festival goers have the chance to embrace the culture and enjoy great music, food, and many different artistic vendors. Although I ate before arriving to the festival, while walking down the avenue and smelling all of the vivid odors coming from all of the different vendors, I needed something else to eat.

I walked till I found a local Baltimorean vendor that simply sold delicious lump crab cake sandwiches – all for $7! – it was a steal! I strolled around and walked into some of the stores located on the avenue. Spro Cafe was selling their ice coffee and large arrangement of ice teas to combat the extremely hot day. Taharka Brothers was in the shade, providing samples of their ice cream and ice cream sandwiches – the line for this vendor stretched across the avenue.

The great food and the opportunity to support the local community is what makes festival such as HonFest such a success. Since 1994, the festival has been rapidly growing and has added an extra day to their festival schedule. Meet me there next year… I’m think about getting my hair restyled.

So Many Greeks, In Such A Little Place

Being a 1st generation Greek, the St. Nicholas Greek festival has been a festival that I have been going to since I could remember my first memories. Like HonFest, the Greek festival has grown tremendously since its inception to Greektown, Baltimore. Today, the Greek festival is the second largest festival in Baltimore City (second to Artscape), and has over four blocks closed for event activities. From Greek dancing, amazing Greek food, Frappe’s, Greek imported beer (Mythos), and lots of Greek artwork, the festival not only allows Greeks to have a place to meet, but it allows the community to get involved and learn about Greek culture. This year I decided to go with the lamb gyro with a side of calamari. Like usual, it did not disappoint me.

Events such as HonFest and the St. Nicholas Greek Festival are crucial to the local community in Baltimore. Not only do they offer local vendors the opportunity to gain some exposure that they wouldn’t usually notice, but it offers a way for people in the area to meet their neighbors and build relationships. Find me at both festivals next year! Till next time: Opa Hon!