PHARR, Texas – If you’ve ever savored homestyle Greek food, or are more of a handmade Eastern European fare fan, this is an event you don’t want to miss. Most especially, be sure to try the crispy, sweet baklava.
A much-anticipated annual event, the International Festival, held at St. George’s Orthodox Church in Pharr is perfect for picking up holiday gifts, as well as for-sale specialty foods. Local families and Winter Texans alike enjoy this seasonal occurrence. If you appreciate a taste of the world, don’t miss this culinary fundraiser. Festival favorites include Greek layered pastitcio, spanakopita, grilled souvlaki and stuffed grape leaves. On the Russian side of the gastronomic globe, try savory cabbage rolls, pirogies or hot blini. And of course, some Ukrainian honey cake.
“You won’t find anything like this Festival here in the Valley,” shares Judie Geil, long-time Parishioner of St. George’s. “Even though I now live in Houston, I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Geil’s special German beirocks and strudel are already made up and ready to sell.
A fun, educational outing for the entire family, the Festival offers free entry, parking, children’s activities and a wide variety of entertainment. There’s always something for everyone to see, hear and do. Activities and information will be shared by the Museum of South Texas History, IMAS, the McAllen Public Library, Texas Master Naturalists, Texas Master Gardeners, UTRGV CHAPS, the Lambs Loom, Gem Valley Farmers Market, Milkweed & Monarchs and more. “Two by Two Petting Zoo” will be available for children from 10 a.m. – noon.
The year’s entertainment schedule includes the wonderful UTRGV Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble, playing holiday favorites, as well as the much-beloved Mariachi Nueva Tradicion. The children’s mariachi and conjunto groups from Creative Arts Studio will join the day’s performances, as well as members of the colibrí children’s choir. Find the exciting entertainment and activity schedule at: stgeorgetxfestival.com/entertainment.html
Elizabeth Perdomo, International Festival Director shared, “Each year, we try to include some repeat performances from past favorites, as well as adding something new.” Perdomo continued, “This year, the event will open with Scottish Pipes and Drums, and close with Robert Soto and the South Texas Indian Dancers. It should be a great day of music and dance!”
A special place for for holiday shopping, pick up some unique items created by artisans, handicraft and farmers market vendors. Everything from local honey and tasty preserves, to handmade soap, beeswax candles, Eastern European folkart and handcrafted wood items will be there to choose from. Some special vendors from Mexico will sell small batch bags of coffee grown in Mexico, handcrafted silver jewelry and more. If you’re interested, take a free guided tour of St. George Orthodox Church and the learn about the lovely icons, an ancient liturgical artform.
Vegan and vegetarian options are available for some of festival foods, including International Soups. Besides take-home soup containers, frozen versions of many specialties are also available inside the church hall. Pick up some to enjoy later. Bring a cooler along in the car to keep ‘em cold. Besides baklava, holiday cookies, sweet breads and other baked goods from around the world will make your mouth water. Treat someone you love with a package or two.
Come early and spend the day. Begin the morning with freshly baked scones and muffins. Want a break to sit a while and watch the performances? Grab a cup of Russian tea, Greek or Mexican coffee and some special baked goods from the Russian Tea Shoppe, and you’ll be ready to relax and enjoy the music. Handicapped drop off and entry access available.
One purpose for the festival is to collect food and funds for St. George Food Pantry, which serves over 100 families twice a month. Bring monetary donations, canned goods or non-perishables, new or lightly used blankets, coats, children’s clothing or toys, for the special Christmas distribution. Receive one homemade cookie as a “thank you” in the “Give a Can; Get a Cookie” campaign.
This year’s International Festival will be held on Saturday, December 8th, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at St. George Orthodox Church, 704 W. Sam Houston in Pharr. To learn more about the festival, see their website at: stgeorgetxfestival.com/index.html or on Facebook at: facebook.com/St.GeorgeInternationalFestival/