There are two kinds of people: Greeks, and those who wish they were Greek, who attend the Tacoma Greek Festival. Or those who are just in the mood for delicious Mediterranean delicacies, good coffee and big Greek family hospitality. The festival offers an authentic experience of fabulous Greek traditions. The event’s food alone has been given many kudos (Greek root: kud, meaning glory, fame) for its gyros, baklava and dolmathes.

With your coffee, beer or wine in hand, get in line for a plate of tyropitakia (light and flaky warm cheese pies) and snag a seat in front of the main stage to watch performances of traditional folk dancing by the St. Nicholas dancers. Stroll the scene. For those suffering from anthropophobia (Greek roots: anthropos, man plus phobos, fear) or who generally dislike large crowds, you might want to stay away from the giant communal dining tables.

Think you can’t make it? Too tired? Too broke? The ethnic spices will stir your sleepy senses and admission is free (food costs money). So spray some Windex on your excuse and come partake in the fun.

[Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Friday, Oct. 7-Saturday, Oct. 8 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 9 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., no cover, 1523 S. Yakima Ave, Tacoma, 253.272.0466]