PHOENIX, AZ – by Kristen Bruskas [Photos by GM Photography- Allen Altchech]
The 49th Annual Folk Dance and Choral Festival (FDF) of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco shone brightly February 12 – 15, 2026 in Phoenix, AZ. This year’s theme, Shine, came to life in a weekend filled with worship, tradition, friendship and joyful expressions of faith in action. Under the leadership of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco, FDF is one of 13 distinct and vibrant ministries in the Metropolis, and has become a pinnacle event gathering generations of families in a weekend immersed in Faith, Dance and Fellowship. Among the distinguished guests present throughout the weekend were His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America; His Eminence Metropolitan Kyrillos of Krini, Exarch of Malta; and Hon. Christina Valassopoulou, Consul General of Greece in Los Angeles. Nearly 5,000 faithful took part in the four-day celebration, reflecting the strength, unity and joyful spirit of this treasured ministry.
Thursday opened with an enthusiastic Opening Ceremony featuring a joyful parade of participating groups followed by a prayerful Agiasmos service that set both a sacred and celebratory tone. Later that evening, clergy from across the Metropolis gathered for a special reception, offering meaningful fellowship and time together with Archbishop Elpidophoros.
Friday was devoted to dance and choral competitions that showcased remarkable artistry, intricate choreography, detailed traditional costumes and resonant music. The evening concluded with a lively Glendi, where participants celebrated their shared heritage in joyful fellowship.
Saturday continued with competitions marked by exceptional skill and dedication. A highlight came when Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco joined the youngest Division III dancers in a traditional Kalamatiano, symbolizing the living continuity of faith and culture being passed to a new generation. That evening, the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate hosted a dinner in honor of Archbishop Elpidophoros and presented a $12,000 gift providing two full scholarships for the Pilgrimage of Discovery program, which connects young adults with their Orthodox heritage and the Mother Church.
Sunday began with Divine Liturgy, a time of unity and prayer marking the final Sunday of the Triodion. Offerings collected that morning were matched by FDF, and $10,000 was presented to support Hellenic College Holy Cross. Following Liturgy, the Metropolis Philoptochos hosted a Clergy Family Brunch, where President Jeannie Ranglas presented a $5,000 donation to the Archbishop’s Benevolence Fund for academic scholarships benefiting deserving students. The afternoon featured the highly anticipated Advanced Senior competition, demonstrating the festival’s highest level of performance excellence.
The weekend concluded with the Awards Ceremony attended by more than 3,500 participants and supporters at the Phoenix Convention Center. The Metropolitan Anthony Humanitarian Award was presented to Dr. Michael J. Patzakis; and the Elios Award of Excellence was presented to Maria Barbas. Dance Sweepstakes honors were awarded to Annunciation Cathedral of San Francisco for Spithes (Division I) and To Mellon (Division II). Choral Sweepstakes winners included the Hellenic College Holy Cross Byzantine Choir from Brookline, MA (Division I) and Mia Foni from Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles, CA (Division II).
Throughout the weekend, participants also embodied the spirit of service by preparing 35,000 meals for those in need through the Diakonia project in collaboration with the Metropolis Philoptochos, demonstrating that the light of faith shines brightest when lived through acts of love.
As anticipation builds, the Metropolis now looks ahead with gratitude and excitement to the 50th anniversary celebration of FDF in 2027, continuing a cherished legacy that inspires young people to grow in faith, cultivate their gifts and shine as witnesses of Christ’s light in the world.
