MERRILLVILLE | Greek dancing, music and food will be featured Friday and July 11 and 12 as SS. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral hosts its 40th annual Grecian festival.

The festival is on the church grounds at 8000 Madison St. from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, and noon to 11 p.m. July 11 and 12. Admission and parking are free.

"The key thing is it's a family oriented festival," said Bill Logothetis, the church's council president.

The food sold at the event is sure to draw visitors, Logothetis said. Roasted lamb, Grecian chicken, authentic gyros and Greek lasagna are popular fare. There also will be Greek pastries available for purchase as well as a beer garden, he added.

He said entertainment will include Greek dancers who perform at 8 p.m. Friday and at 6:30 and 8 p.m. July 11 and 12. The Greek band Hellas 2000 also will perform July 11 and 12.

There will be a gift shop inside the cathedral selling items from Greece and children's rides will be available. Guests will have the opportunity to tour of the cathedral at 7:30 p.m. Friday and at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. July 11 and 12.

A free fireworks display will be at dusk July 11.

For more information about the festival, call the church office at (219) 769-2481.