Frequently asked questions
Quick answers for first-timers and returning guests. Still stuck? Contact the parish office.
Parish office
- Phone
- (661) 325-8694
- stgeosecretary@gmail.com
- Address
- 401 Truxtun Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Location
Adjacent to the Amtrak Station, Bakersfield Convention Bureau, and Beale Library
When is the 2026 festival?
Friday–Sunday, October 9–11, 2026 at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 401 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93301.
What are the hours?
Friday 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, and Sunday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
How much is admission?
Pre-sale closed$5 at the gate for adults, and kids under 12 are free. Pre-sale tickets ($20 food value plus free admission) closed on Wednesday, October 7 — but don’t worry, admission is still available at the gate all weekend: Friday 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, and Sunday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Can I bring my dog or my own drinks?
No pets — service dogs only. No outside alcohol. The Sports Taverna serves guests 21 and older with ID.
Is the food authentic Greek?
Yes — parish volunteers prepare traditional Greek favorites: gyros, souvlaki, pastries, loukoumades, and more. Vegetarian and vegan items are on several booth menus.
Can I pay with a card?
Yes. All booths offer contactless payment, and cash is typically welcome as well.
Is there live entertainment?
Yes — live Greek music with The Olympians and traditional Greek dancers. The weekend schedule is on the Entertainment page.
Are church tours available?
Yes, and first-time visitors are especially welcome. Self-guided tours of St. George are open daily during the festival, so you can explore at your own pace. The bookstore is open too, if you'd like to take something home.
Who benefits from the festival?
A portion of 2026 proceeds supports the Bakersfield SPCA. The parish also relies on the weekend for community and outreach.
Is the festival family-friendly?
Yes. Outdoor booths, live music, and church tours. There is a kids’ zone on the grounds as well. Admission is free for kids under 12. First aid is at the entrance booth.
Is there a raffle?
Yes. Guests can buy a $100 raffle ticket for a chance to win a 5-night trip to Greece for two: 2 nights in Athens and 3 nights in Santorini. Drawing is Sunday, October 11 at 5:00 PM; you do not need to be present to win. Bring your ticket stub to claim the prize. The prize includes daily breakfast, a guided Acropolis tour, one-way airfare from Athens to Santorini, private airport transportation, Winspire booking and concierge, and a $1,000 airline voucher. Total prize value is $6,500. Travel dates are April through October 1; book at least 60 days in advance. Baskets of goodies are raffled as well.
If I only want food, do I still need a ticket?
Yes. Admission covers entry to the grounds. You pay for food and drinks at each booth. Kids under 12 enter free.
Can I still apply to be a vendor?
Not this year, though we wish we could say yes. The festival grounds only hold so many booths, and they go quickly. Please apply again next year. We'd be glad to hear from you.
How do I get updates?
Use Subscribe on this site, or follow the festival on Facebook (facebook.com/BakersfieldGreekFoodFestival) and Instagram (@bakersfieldgreekfest). Parish phone: (661) 325-8694.