Join us on March 20, 21 and 22, 2026 for a unique collaborative dance workshop. Registration is open until March 13.
Vimata Eleftherias - Steps of Freedom
A collaborative mission
Our mission is to celebrate and strengthen the vibrant Greek American community by honoring our heritage, fostering unity, and showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Greece. In collaboration with the Greek Independence Day Parade, we aim to provide an inclusive and festive space where individuals of all ages can experience the beauty of Hellenic folk dance, music, and customs. Through this event, we seek to preserve and share the timeless traditions of Greece, while creating meaningful connections among Greek Americans and the broader community, ensuring that our legacy thrives for generations to come.
The Hellenic Dance Weekend will occur March 20, 21, 22. This is part of a series of events leading up to the Greek Independence Day Parade which will take place on Sunday, April 26.
Featured Instructor and Performer: Kostas Mitsis
Kostas Mitsis is a prominent Greek folk singer and dancer, known for preserving and performing traditional Greek music, especially from regions like Epirus, with his album A Piece of Greece (2011) featuring popular folk songs. He's deeply involved in Greek tradition, teaching folk dance and researching regional music, often performing with groups like the Lykeion ton Ellindon and releasing music on platforms like Spotify with his band Eptasimo.
Schedule of Events
Friday, March 20 7:00PM: Welcome Dinner & Exhibitions
Saturday, March 21 10:00am - 4:00pm: Workshops
Saturday, March 21 7:00pm: GAFS Annual Dance
Sunday, March 22, 1:30pm: Feature Exhibition (all participants)
Next steps: Registration
Fill out the Registration Form for each individual [Click here to Register].
Pay for the weekend or individual sessions via Paypal to @gafsny [you can pay for multiple people].
Reserve your room at Voco Hotel in Astoria [by IHG] via our room block, if you’re joining us from out of town. [Click here for Booking Link]. Book your room by Feb 19 to secure discounted pricing.
Join the WhatsApp group and start connecting with the attendees!
Selected Exhibitions
Are you or your group interested in exhibiting your dances in one of our events? We are looking for 4-6 groups to present a short suite of dances on Friday, March 20 or Sunday March 22. Ideally we would like to see two groups work together to present a suite. Contact greekamericanfolkloresociety@gmail.com
Exhibition Opportunity 1: Friday, March 20 7:00pm [two to four groups]
Exhibition Opportunity 2: Sunday, March 22 1:30pm [all participants, present material learned in Workshop]
Exhibition Opportunity 3: Sunday, March 22 2:00pm [two to four groups]
