NEW YORK – The four-day Greek Festival at the Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou in Astoria opened Thursday afternoon, July 23, 2026, with a blessing ceremony and ideal weather conditions.

The event is the only Greek festival held in July across the New York tri-state area, and this year it coincides with the religious feast day of the saint and the procession of her miracle-working icon on Sunday, following Divine Liturgy and the Artoklasia (blessing of the loaves). That service will be led by Bishop Ioakeim of Amissos, representing Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.

The Abbot of the Monastery, Archimandrite Meletios of the Ecumenical Throne, assisted by priests from the monastery’s affiliated parishes, performed the blessing and offered his benediction to volunteers and visitors, formally opening the festival.

The dance troupe of the Hellenic Folklore Society of America stole the show once again this year, presenting traditional costumes and folk dances.

The festival is the monastery’s largest annual event and its most successful fundraiser, providing crucial support for the sustainability of its educational, cultural, and charitable programs.

2026 marks a milestone year for the monastery, as renovation work is currently underway on both the church and the monastery’s buildings , a project that has energized staff and members to give generously.

The festival continues, Friday, Saturday, concluding Sunday evening, July 26, 2026. Religious services will conclude on Tuesday, the saint’s actual feast day, with a festive Divine Liturgy led by Abbot Meletios of St. Irene’s.

Source : Anamniseis.net Photos:George Samaras