Paniyiri Greek Festival

Queensland’s largest cultural celebration and the nation’s longest-running Greek festival, Paniyiri, marks an incredible 50 years in 2026, returning to Musgrave Park in South Brisbane on Saturday May 23 and Sunday May 24.

For half a century, Paniyiri - meaning “festival” in Greek - has brought the sights, sounds and flavours of Greece to Brisbane, celebrating the rich heritage of more than 30,000 Queenslanders of Greek descent.

What started in 1976 as a simple celebration at The Greek Club organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of St George, Brisbane, became so popular within a few short years that it moved across the road to Musgrave Park. This move ensured there was enough room for everyone to feast, dance, and party like a Greek, growing into a two-day cultural phenomenon attracting over 50,000 people each year.

This golden anniversary promises a vibrant, multi-sensory experience for all ages. Festival goers can dance the Zorba, smash plates, stomp grapes, explore market stalls, enjoy non-stop entertainment and savour authentic sweet and savoury dishes from multiple Greek regions across 20 food stalls.

Co-Chairman of the volunteer organising committee, Kos Kastrissios, said reaching the 50-year milestone is a proud moment for the entire community.

“Celebrating 50 years of Paniyiri is a remarkable achievement,” he said. “For five decades over one weekend each year, Paniyiri unites Brisbane with the spirit, flavours, and rhythm of Greece.

“More than a festival, Paniyiri is a living bridge between Greek tradition and Brisbane’s multicultural community and proves that culture is best shared through music, dance, food and people.”

Run by volunteers, Paniyiri is a not-for-profit event, raising vital funds for community groups and charities. Every food and market stall is run by the Greek community with all funds raised distributed back via the Brisbane Greek Orthodox Community of St George; Brisbane’s oldest Greek community established in the 1920s. Every food stall in the park is run by various Greek associations and other Greek Orthodox Parishes– who fundraise for their own charities. 

From traditional dancing by The Hellenic Dancers to cooking demonstrations by celebrated chefs, wine tastings and the much-loved pop-up Greek Village, Paniyiri 2026 will honour its proud history while delivering the energy and joy that have made it Brisbane’s best party in the park for 50 years.

Paniyiri Greek Festival is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com