GULF SHORES, Ala. — OPa! St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Chapel is opening its arms to the community for a one night crash course of culture.

The 3rd annual Gulf Shores Greek Festival will be held Saturday and will bring the old world to the coast. From 7 p.m. until, residents can take advantage of food, music, dancing and fun.

“It’s very ethnic,” co-chairman Pete Vakakes said. “It gives you version of what Greek life is in America.”

A true party spirit will ensue. Vakakes said they plan to prepare for 300 and pack out the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center; an undertaking for a church of only 35.

“It’s a lively community,” Vakakes said of his Greek counterparts. “It’s a part of our heritage.”

Food is always a front running interest in other cultures, and the Greeks don’t disappoint.

“(Greek food) has a lot of olive oil, butter, lemon, garlic, feta cheese and olives,” Vakakes. “Garlic is also a big part of our food and it’s good for your heart.”

Traditional dishes like mousaka, an eggplant topped with a creamy sauce and cheese, domathes, stuffed grape leaves, spanakopita, a spinach pie, and tiropita, a cheese pie made with a blend of Greek cheeses, will be served. Chicken prepared with Greek herbs and spices and roasted legs of lamb will sit alongside those dishes. Assorted pastries will add a treat to the feast.

An open bar will be offered in the package and the native liqueur ouzo will be flowing.

“It’s like drinking liquorish, it’s really strong,” Vakakes said.

After shots of ouzo build courage, guests will be able to take part in Greek entertainment.

Nick Trivelos and the Ageans will play their Greek guitars called bouzoukis.

Greek line dancing will encourage crowd involvement, and Vakakes said the Greeks will teach Americans the moves.

The Kefi Dancers are traveling from Birmingham to perform traditional dances that date back to Alexander the Great.

The dancers will be dressed in authentic Grecian costumes.

Co-chairman Tom Poulos said the event is held to share with the area the heritage of Greeks and to celebrate St. Athanasios.

“We are fun-loving, passionate people,” Poulos said. “We are also religious people.”

The celebration falls on St. Athanasios name day — the day he was named a saint. The crusader was so titled a saint for his work against paganism during the 300s.

“He was a champion of orthodox doctrine,” Poulos said. “He won over adverse activities trying to bring the church down.”

Poulos also guaranteed no dishes will be harmed during the course of the festival, although it was once customary to break dishes during Greek celebrations.

Money collected will support local charities as well as help the church build and grow.

Tickets are $50 — $25 less than last year — and can only be purchased before the event. For tickets contact Vakakes at 948-8008 or Poulos at 648-7466.