In the beginning of each summer, I look forward to this special and fun event at the Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Annapolis, Maryland. The Annapolis Greek Festival is being held this weekend from May 31st through Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 at 2747 Riva Road.

The Greek people are vibrant with the joy of life and love to celebrate their heritage with anyone who is interested in participating. Once a year, the church holds this festival filled with food, wine & beer, dancing and entertainment abound.

My favorite of this festival is of course, the Greek food. Every year I excitedly head down to Annapolis to get large take out bags filled to the brim with Greek food. Greek Salad, Stuffed Grape Leaves, Spanakopita, Roasted Lamb Shank, Greek Oregano Chicken, and Moussaka.  My mouth waters just thinking about the food.

But of course, that is just the tip of the iceberg of the food and refreshments that are offered at the festival this weekend. A required stop is through the bakery line where one will be amazed by the spectacular desserts available. How the women produce such a large quantity of beautiful and perfectly shaped desserts, and each being delicious always astounds me.

A vendor area is also available with many Greek items and souvenirs available for purchase.

But one true treasure of the festival is one that many miss. Take the time to step into the church of The Saints Constantine & Helen. Opening up the door and entering is as if you have stepped into the Mediterranean.

Immediately greeted by the scent of devotional candles and brightly painted ceilings and walls with Iconic art, one is immediately subdued by the spiritual beauty.

Inside the chapel, the sparkling large chandeliers shipped from Greece take your breath away. The artwork seen on the walls and ceiling were painted on canvas in Greece then shipped to Annapolis for installation within the church. Their brilliant colors and iconic history tell many religious stories.

The archway over the church chancel shows portraits of prophets that foretold the coming of Jesus. Also displayed are the baptismal basin, and other religious ceremony items.

Perhaps the most spectacular artwork within the church is in the ceiling dome. Brilliant with blue the color of a bright sky it immediately captures your eye.

But of course, my visit wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t include a photo of a horse.

If you’re looking to have some fun this weekend, visiting the Annapolis Greek Festival should be first on your list. The festival is free, and church is open for tours.

OPA !