Festival Celebrates the Olympics

If you can’t be in Atlanta for the Olympic Games, the next best thing may be to commune with the Greeks, the originators of the Games, at the 23rd annual Santa Barbara Greek Festival. Although there won’t be any athletes on hand to hand off the flame, the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympic Games will be commemorated with a torch-lighting ceremony on Saturday, at noon. It will be carried by potential future Olympians--children--to Mayor Harriet Miller, who will light the ceremonial flame that will (hopefully) burn throughout the weekend.

There won’t be any foot races or swimming events in which to compete, but you can keep your feet moving with the Greek circle dance, and the children’s wading pool will be open till 7 each night. Dance competitions are slated for 4 p.m. each day. There will be entertainment on two stages and plenty of Greek favorites, including gyros, pastries and an assortment of Greek wines.

Hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Exit off Highway 101 at the Pueblo Street offramp, follow the signs to Oak Park, Santa Barbara. Free. (805) 963-7037.