Traveling Tap, Minneapolis

Each year for the past 24 years, crowds have gathered near the banks of Lake Calhoun at St. Mary's Greek Orthodox Church to celebrate the proud culinary and cultural traditions of Greece. From the civilization that gifted the Western world with democracy, classical architecture, and the toga party comes an appetizing spread of imported wines, lamb pilafs, gyros, and grilled-chicken souvlaki. After hitting up the food tent, visitors marvel at costumed performers whirling through the lively steps of traditional Hellenistic dance. Chefs and olive growers demonstrate how to cook with phyllo or select the perfect oil. As they peruse the wares of the marketplace or move to the melody of Greek folk music, festival-goers can relish the warm fuzzy feelings they get from being charitable, since Taste of Greece helps raise funds for organizations including the Joyce Uptown Food Shelf and C.A.D.E.