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On January 16, 2026, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana for Hellenic Dance Festival’s 25th annual competition showcasing the beauty of traditional Greek folk dancing and music.

His Eminence was also greeted by a folk dancing group from Tarpon Springs, Florida.
Photo by Orthodox Observer/Brittainy Newman



He was greeted by His Eminence Metropolitan Sevastianos of Atlanta, Rev. Fr. Sampson. Kasapakis, the director of the Hellenic Dance Fest, as well as other clergy from the Metropolis of Atlanta.

On the first day of the competition that has drawn thousands to New Orleans, teams from all over the country took the stages inside of ballrooms, performing historic dances backed by music from throughout the ages of Greek folk dancing. Some dressed in bright fustanellas and Amalia dresses and others in jackets and trousers reminiscent of the early 20th century.

Photo by Orthodox Observer/Brittainy Newman

The Orthodox Observer will be covering the entirety of this weekend’s festivities, including an award ceremony on Sunday.

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