Epiphany celebration at the Henley Square,

Adelaide

February 2026 Under perfect weather conditions, the traditional Epiphany festival organized by the Greek Orthodox Community of SA was held at Henley Beach on Sunday, January 11. Thousands of visitors flocked to the popular beach in the morning to witness the major religious celebration, which marks the end of the festive season, turning the Epiphany into a genuine Greek summer festival. At the same time, Henley Square had been transformed into an open-air Greek fair, with marquees full of food, barbecues, tables and chairs, an abundance of delicious loukoumades and live music—all set against the backdrop of the blue sea. The official ceremony began shortly after noon, as members of the public and distinguished guests gathered at the end of the jetty to witness the Blessing of the Waters ceremony, with members of the clergy performing the immersion of the Holy Cross. Around 20 young people dove into the calm waters of the Henley beach to retrieve the cross, with this year’s lucky participant being Thomas Matsouliadis, who brought the cross ashore and received blessings from the clergy. As is customary every year, ten white doves were released into the sky, symbolizing purity and enlightenment, sending a message of peace and love. The official ceremony continued at the square, where Father Ioannis blessed the young swimmer and, together with the Community President Peter Ppiros, presented him with a commemorative trophy and a gold cross. Among the dignitaries attending the festival were the Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas MP, Opposition Leader Ashton Hurn MP, Deputy Premier Kyam Maher MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Zoe Bettison MP, Federal MP for Hindmarsh Mark Butler, Liberal MP for Colton Matt Cowdrey, Mayor of the City of Charles Sturt Angela Evans, Frank Pangallo MLC, Lord Mayor of Adelaide Dr. Jane Lomax-Smith, Mayor of West Torrens Michael Coxon, councilors Steven Finos (of Unley) and George Demetriou (of West Torrens), as well as candidates for the seat of Colton, Aria Bolkus (for Labor) and Rebecca Sutton (for Liberal). The program continued with speeches by the official guests and a lively musical performance by the “Zorbas” band, keeping the festive spirit high until the evening. In his speech, Premier Malinauskas stated that, “from now on, state funding for the GOCSA Epiphany festival will increase to a total of $80,000 over four years”. Special attention was also given to the dance performances by the Greek Orthodox Community of SA Dance Academy and the Pontian Dance Group, which once again showcased their remarkable talent and dedication to Greek traditions.

Greek Tribune Adelaide, South Australia