WHEELING — The parishioners of St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church, 2215 Chapline St., are hosting their 17th annual Grecian Food Festival beginning Wednesday through Saturday, July 26 through July 29 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Since the year 2000, the community of St. John the Divine has hosted a multi-day Grecian Food Festival. Each year, the committee tries to provide something new for their faithful patrons and this year is no exception. In 2013 the church celebrated its 100th anniversary as the first Greek Orthodox Church in West Virginia which was established in1913.

Back by popular demand, “Greek Town” exhibit showcases all of the businesses owned and operated by Greek Americans who migrated to Wheeling. Imported Greek gifts and jewelry with a selection of beautiful imported gold and silver jewelry also will allow guests to bring home a piece of Greece. This year there will be Greek Food cooking classes titled “Fun with Fillo” on all four days at 2 p.m. in the Hellenic Center Balcony.

After many years, a dream was realized and the church sanctuary was renovated and completed in 2009. It represents the Byzantine architecture unique to the Orthodox faith. The sanctuary will be open during festival hours and Father Demetrios will be conducting guided tours at designated times.

And then there’s the food of course! In addition to outdoor casual dining, more than eight full dinner entrees are available in the Hellenic Center Hall. The choices are Grecian chicken, sausage, lamb, twice marinated and grilled pork kabobs and baked fish.

Two new items are being offered this year at the outdoor Taverna: chicken kabobs and the Big Fat Greek Hot Dog. Also available is an ala-carte menu and a wide selection of homemade delicious Greek pastries. Flavorful food items only authentic to the Greek culture are being offered.

In addition to live authentic Greek music provided by an Ohio Valley favorite, “The Greek Company” on Friday and Saturday nights and the performances of the Agape dancers, there will be entertainment provided by local talent on Wednesday night featuring “Two Bridges” at 4 p.m. and again at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 29. There also be plenty of free parking available on Chapline Street and at the OVMC garage.

Go online and browse www.grecianfest.com for more information. Click on the contact tab and complete the information form and you will be included on our mailing list. Once submitted you will be eligible for a free Greek pastry. Call in or fax your order, 304-232-4976 (GYRO).

For more information online, go to www.stjohngochurch.org, or call the church at 304-233-0757.