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Immigration Attorneys in Celebration, FL
When you think about the American Dream, what comes to mind? For many citizens, it means the freedom to provide for one's family through hard work, dedication, and good deeds. For others, it means having a reliable career and enough financial security to buy a modest home and maybe even a white picket fence. In modern times, however, it's harder than ever to achieve the American Dream - and that's for people who are born in our great nation. For men and women coming to the U.S. from another country, it often seems impossible. These are good, hardworking people who simply want the opportunity to provide for their families and adopt the American way.
Unfortunately, getting through the United States immigration system is seldom straightforward or easy. Many immigration cases face hurdles and difficulties that require expert legal assistance to achieve favorable outcomes. It can be challenging to figure out how to properly organize application materials or discern the options available to you. Fortunately, immigration attorneys in Celebration, FL, can help you avoid the common mistakes so many make and help you gain access to the immigration benefits you rightly deserve. It all starts with a one-on-one conference at Central Florida Immigration Attorneys.
- Immigration Attorneys in Celebration, FL
- Helping You Pursue the American Dream One Step at a Time
- Do You Really Need Immigration Lawyers in Celebration, FL?
- How Can You Find the Best Immigration Lawyers in Celebration, FL?
- Top 3 Immigration Attorney Red Flags
- Changing Lives One Immigration Case at a Time
Services Areas
Helping You Pursue the American Dream One Step at a Time
Central Florida Immigration Attorneys possesses extensive knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. immigration system, derived from decades of specialized legal expertise. We prioritize treating our clients as partners, with the foremost goal of assisting in resolving any immigration-related challenges.
Our principal attorney, Charlene Seda, has previously served as an adjudicator for immigration services at USCIS, and Attorney Alejandro Salgado has an extensive background as a criminal lawyer. This combined experience gives our law firm a distinctive viewpoint on all facets of the immigration system, allowing us to better support our clients. Collectively, our legal team has over 20 years of combined experience and remains dedicated to offering the skilled and empathetic assistance you require.
Clients recommend their friends and families to our immigration lawyers in Celebration, FL, because we provide:
Two Decades of Professional Experience
Attorney Charlene Seda & Attorney Alejandro Seda have over 20 years of combined experience. They are both graduates from the prestigious Universidad Católica de Ponce, Puerto Rico and both received Masters Degrees from the University of Miami School of Law.
Knowledge of the System
Attorney Charlene Seda previously worked in USCIS - the United States Citizenship & Immigration Service. She knows the system from the inside and knows what she must do in order to set up your immigration case for success
Clear Communication
Our immigration lawyers strive to be accessible to our clients. We want to make sure we follow up and share the status of your case so that we are all on the same path.
Transparent Expectations
You can trust us from the moment you walk into our office. We will let you know exactly what we can and cannot do for your case. We want to set up clear expectations from day one.
The Central Florida Immigration Attorneys Difference
When you engage our firm, you gain access to decades of professional experience. We stand ready to assist as your ally and advisor at every stage of your immigration journey. Our team can support you in obtaining legal status through various application processes, explore dual intent visas, help you prepare for naturalization, and advocate for your rights if you face removal proceedings. With extensive knowledge of all aspects of the U.S. immigration system, we can guide you in identifying the most feasible paths to reside and work in the United States of America.
Unlike some immigration attorneys, our firm is truly dedicated to helping you achieve the American Dream. Together with our partners, we assist "credit invisible" men and women obtain the financing they need to hire immigration attorneys in Celebration, FL. These loans cover both government filing fees and your immigration attorney fees. In doing so, we help clients establish credit profiles to help them access credit in the future as they take the necessary steps along the journey toward full citizenship.
At the end of the day, our goal is to use every legal route available to help you build a better life for your family. When you work with our immigration lawyers, you can rest easy knowing we'll always be straightforward about what each immigration strategy entails, as well as the risks, costs, and timeline involved. Our attorneys will also be upfront and honest about what we can and cannot do. We believe transparency is paramount to helping you make informed decisions, which is why we always keep you abreast of updates pertaining to your case.
Our immigration lawyers focus on providing expert legal representation for a range of immigration needs, including:
- Immigration Law
- Family-Based Immigration
- Employment-Based Immigration
- Citizenship & Naturalization
- Deportation Defense
- Cancellation of Removal
- 601a Provisional Waiver
- Visas
- U Visas
- Visa Extensions
Our Immigration Lawyers Understand What's at Stake
Whether you need to reunite your family in the U.S., establish permanent employment, or protect against deportation, the result of your immigration case will greatly affect your future. Our immigration attorneys recognize the significance of your situation and will make every effort to attain a positive outcome in your case. Instead of bragging and boasting, at Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we let our track record do the talking. We encourage you to review our firm's testimonials to learn more about how we have made a direct, positive impact on our clients' lives. Our clients rely on us to help them achieve their American Dreams. We're ready to help turn your dreams into reality, too.
Do You Really Need Immigration Lawyers in Celebration, FL?
If you're in need of U.S. immigration benefits, it's always best to work with a qualified immigration attorney. Trying to navigate the hurdles of immigration law on your own is like flying a plane without any experience. It may seem easiest to jump in without any guidance, but doing so can be more detrimental to your goals than hiring a great lawyer. If you're wondering whether or not you need an immigration lawyer, keep these common benefits in mind.
Trying to understand legal paperwork is hard enough, even when you’re born in the U.S. For non-native English speakers, figuring out immigration paperwork is even more difficult. Filling out the forms and gathering the necessary supporting documents can be quite overwhelming and bewildering. Seasoned immigration attorneys are well-versed in the correct procedures for filling out these forms. Failing to fill out these forms accurately can lead to significant delays in the approval of your immigration benefits and may result in additional filing fees.
There are multiple ways to obtain U.S. citizenship, and if you're on your own, you might not be aware of all the options. This is where an immigration lawyer can step in to help. They can present different paths, explain the advantages and disadvantages of each, and make sure you fully grasp the implications of your choice on your citizenship journey.
Immigration lawyers are equipped to assist you in obtaining the necessary authorization to work in the U.S. A skilled attorney is familiar with the precise information you must provide to secure work authorization and to ensure the smooth progress of your application. Without a legal expert, errors in the process can cause significant delays.
If you're looking to become a U.S. citizen, chances are this is your first time trying. Thankfully, when you secure counsel from a reputable firm like Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, you can sleep a little easier knowing they have years of experience helping people just like you. Your immigration lawyer should be familiar with the various scenarios and pathways to the immigration benefit you seek. This will be advantageous for you as they have the expertise to identify the necessary documentation, recommend the most suitable options, and provide you with guidance on what to anticipate throughout the process.
Remember that the government can deem you inadmissible for various reasons, such as unresolved financial issues, criminal activity, or providing false information. If you're considered inadmissible, it doesn't have to be the end of the road. There are methods to challenge this ruling. An immigration attorney can assist you in presenting a compelling case. Although there's no guarantee that the immigration court will reverse the decision, having a seasoned lawyer by your side will undoubtedly improve your chances.
How Can You Find the Best Immigration Lawyers in Celebration, FL?
Finding the right immigration law firm can feel a little bit like searching for a needle in a haystack. That's true in every state but especially so in Florida, where immigrants make up approximately 21% of the population, according to the American Immigration Counsel. So, how do you find the top immigration attorneys in your state? Here are a few tips we've compiled together to help make your search easier.
While your immigration matters are in progress, it's important to stay informed about the status of your case, any challenges that may arise, and what actions you might need to take. That's why it's crucial to work with immigration lawyers who value proactive communication. You can ask your attorney about their communication skills and how often they communicate with you, but take that answer with a grain of salt. It's also helpful to check reviews and read what former clients have to say about their responsiveness. Don't settle for a lawyer who fails to keep you updated.
This tip piggybacks off our first point because it involves communication. If you have questions about your case or any other facet of your immigration status, your lawyer should be available to answer those questions and provide reassurance when needed. It's not always realistic to expect that a lawyer will be able to answer your call right away, but it is reasonable to anticipate that your attorney will respond to you within a few days. If a lawyer has a track record of not returning calls from previous clients (which you might find out from client reviews, for instance), then be cautious about working with that lawyer and keep looking for another one.
If a lawyer has ever been publicly criticized or had formal complaints made against them by former clients, the state bar association will keep records of these incidents. If you're thinking of hiring a lawyer for an important immigration matter, it's a good idea to see what their reputation is like with the state bar association. That way, you can verify the immigration lawyer's experience and also potentially become aware of any professional issues the lawyer may have had in the past.
Immigration law can be quite complex, and the procedures associated with such matters can be equally intricate. That's why it's so important to work with an immigration lawyer who has experience handling different types of immigration cases or - at the least - a good deal of experience working cases just like yours. You can gauge an attorney's experience with immigration cases by checking their website first. If that information is not readily available, don't hesitate to reach out to the lawyer directly to inquire about their experience in handling cases similar to yours. Don't forget to check reviews online.
When it's all said and done, you've got to have confidence in your immigration lawyer, trust them to be honest about your case, and provide upfront advice about your options when faced with obstacles. You can get a sense of an immigration lawyer's integrity and truthfulness by meeting them for an initial consultation and reading client testimonials to learn about their honesty. If you don't feel entirely at ease with an immigration lawyer after this meeting, it's best to look elsewhere.
Even if you're fluent in English, it's important to have an immigration attorney who can provide services in multiple languages. This is especially crucial if your immigration matters involve family members, colleagues, or others who have limited English proficiency. If language might be an issue for you or someone else involved in your immigration case, make sure that the lawyer you're interested in offers services in your native or preferred language. At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we proudly offer legal services in both English and Spanish.
If you're new to this country, trying to understand immigration law is overwhelming. But with the right guidance and preparedness, your family's immigration goals are within reach. At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we help clients achieve success and peace of mind through years of combined experience, honesty, communication, professional guidance, and innovative immigration law strategies. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can help when you need it most.
Top 3 Immigration Attorney Red Flags
Wondering if there are any red flags you should be aware of when choosing immigration attorneys in Celebration, FL? The simple answer to that question is yes. If you've got a bad gut feeling or notice any of the following red flags, be wary.
Lawyers Who Wait at USCIS Offices
Attorneys who try to approach you at an office offering United States Citizenship and Immigration Services often provide lackluster legal services. Great immigration lawyers won't have the time to hang out at a USCIS office all day because they're busy serving clients.
"Experts" Who Aren't Really Lawyers
Beware of individuals who present themselves as "visa consultants," "notarios," or "petition preparers," as they are not the same as licensed attorneys. Oftentimes, they simply assist with filling out forms but lack a genuine understanding of your legal circumstances. There is a possibility that they may complete the forms incorrectly or even abscond with your money without providing any services at all.
Illegal Guidance and Advice
Be very careful of lawyers who give you unethical or even illegal advice. For example, be cautious of lawyers who advise you to lie on an immigration form, deceive a USCIS officer, or attempt to bribe an immigration authority. If you get caught, it could result in a permanent bar from U.S. immigration benefits.
Changing Lives One Immigration Case at a Time
At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we have years of combined experience successfully representing clients in a range of immigration cases. We're dedicated to providing reliable, transparent legal services, whether you need help with a basic immigration application or litigation for an extremely complicated federal matter.
Unlike some immigration law firms, we combine state-of-the art technology with traditional one-on-one service to give our clients robust, effective counsel. You can count on your case progressing as fast as possible while having confidence that our immigration lawyers in cityname, state, will answer your questions honestly, clearly, and efficiently. To learn more about our immigration, citizenship, and deportation defense services, schedule your initial consultation today.
Latest News in Celebration, FL
University of Florida Pipe Organ Centennial event to kick off year-long celebration of music
Voleer Thomashttps://www.gainesville.com/story/news/2025/01/16/uf-to-celebrate-centennial-of-pipe-organ-at-university-auditorium/77698383007/
University of Florida organists past and present and musical enthusiasts will gather later this month to celebrate 100 years of the Andrew Anderson Memorial Pipe Organ at the University Auditorium.The UF Pipe Organ Centennial celebration runs Jan. 23-26, but special events will be held throughout the year.“It’s incredible that an organ has been ...
University of Florida organists past and present and musical enthusiasts will gather later this month to celebrate 100 years of the Andrew Anderson Memorial Pipe Organ at the University Auditorium.
The UF Pipe Organ Centennial celebration runs Jan. 23-26, but special events will be held throughout the year.
“It’s incredible that an organ has been maintained for 100 years at an institution,” said Laura Ellis, UF associate director and professor of music. “I love to hear and see the joy and excitement on students' faces when they play the organ. Throughout history, there have been renovations, and I am thankful to my predecessor [Willis Bodine] to make it important enough to maintain it.”
Local news:Eastside High student wins trip to NYC as finalist in national musical theater competition
In the 100 years since the organ was constructed, it has undergone four major renovations.
Willis Bodine, university organist and carillonneur emeritus, taught at the university for 44 years and shared how much he is looking forward to seeing his former colleagues and students again to celebrate.
Bodine studied piano as a child and played the organ in churches and at skating rinks throughout high school.
He was hired as a professor in UF's School of Music in 1959 while he was in graduate school at the University of Texas in Austin.
“When I got here, the instrument was in very poor condition,” Bodine said. “It was hidden by curtains, it was out of tune and infested with bugs.”
With the help of the university, Bodine led renovation projects throughout his time as a professor.
The pipe organ was named in honor of St. Augustine philanthropist Dr. Andrew Anderson, who in 1924 saw the beauty of the newly constructed University Auditorium on the UF campus and donated $50,000 toward the installation of the pipe organ.
A year later, the organ was dedicated to Anderson in a performance by William E. Zeuch.
Bodine said he has had students from all over the world such as Australia and South Africa and enjoyed teaching the students about the organ.
“It’s not a beginner musical instrument,” Bodine said. “You have to be good at playing the keyboard and can read music and use both hands and feet, and posture is really important."
Activities will begin with a guest organ recital on Jan. 23 by artist Stephen Tharp. The festival will include silent movies, the premier of organ compositions, and alumni performances and presentations throughout the weekend.
"Any time you've done something really well for 100 years — it should be recognized," Bodine said.
For more details about the event and to register for the celebration, visit ufpipeorgancentennial.org.
Other UF Pipe Organ events
How long does Strawberry Festival last in Florida? This weekend is the first
Lianna Normanhttps://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/2025/02/28/when-where-florida-strawberry-festival-how-long-plant-city-concert-lineup-how-much-ticket-cost/80824434007/
Plant City's annual Florida Strawberry Festival is here and will be running through next weekend.The festival in Plant City is more than jus...
Plant City's annual Florida Strawberry Festival is here and will be running through next weekend.
The festival in Plant City is more than just strawberries and strawberry shortcake. There are exhibits, livestock, fine arts, crafts and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
"The Florida Strawberry Festival represents a piece of Americana, a time in American history when fairs and festivals brought communities together through celebrations of their harvests," The Florida Strawbery website says.
"It has continued to grow in popularity year after year through the preservation of this heritage. Central to its focus, the Festival continues to preserve and enhance the agricultural and historical legacy of the Florida strawberry."
Here's what to know about The Florida Strawberry Festival, how long it will be running, how much it costs to attend and a look back at the time a "Fearless" era Taylor Swift performed at the festival.
How long does the Strawberry Festival last in Florida?
This year's Strawberry Festival started on Thursday, Feb. 27, and runs until Sunday, March 9, 11 days and nights.
Where is the Strawberry Festival in Florida located?
The Strawberry Festival is held in Plant City, 303 BerryFest Place. Plant City is located about 20 miles east of Tampa and 50 miles southwest of Orlando. It's less than 10 miles west of Lakeland.
How much does it cost to go to the Florida Strawberry Festival?
Admission for the festival at the gate is:
Discount admission tickets are available through March 9 at participating Publix supermarkets in Central Florida and the Amscot Main Ticket Gate, 2209 W. Oak Ave., in Plant City.
➤ See the full list and addresses of participating Publix locations.
Florida Strawberry Festival 2025:12 things to know from ticket prices to concert lineup
How much is parking at the Strawberry Festival in Florida?
Parking is available on Florida Strawberry Festival property in the Blue, Gray and Red parking lots located on Ritter Street, off of Highway 92 or Highway 574. Prices are:
Strawberry Festival concert lineup, see entertainment schedule
Here's the headline entertainment lineup for this year's festival. Tickets are available at ETIX or by calling 813-754-1996. Unless specified, gate admission doesn't include concert tickets.
Thursday, Feb. 27
Saturday, March 1
Sunday, March 2
Monday, March 3
Tuesday, March 4
Wednesday, March 5
Thursday, March 6
Friday, March 7
Saturday, March 8
Sunday, March 9
Speaking of musical guests, Did Taylor Swift perform at the Strawberry Festival?
Yes! Miss Americana herself made an appearance at Plant City's Strawberry Festival in 2009.
“Back in the day, everyone came through the festival, especially the country acts,” Festival President Paul Davis told ABC Action News Tampa Bay in 2023.
"When she did her meet and greet with fans, every single person she talked to she complimented something about them and was the nicest person. She was absolutely a joy to be around.”
Davis told ABC Action News that the show was free and there were 4,000 seats, but Swift drew a crowd of 8,000 hours before the concert was set to start.
This appearance was in between her second and third studio albums. Her sophomore album, "Fearless" had just released the winter before, in November 2008. Her third album, "Speak Now" was released in October 2010.
What time do the gates open at the Florida Strawberry Festival?
Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Midway hours are:
The Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo Kiddie Korral is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Does the Strawberry Festival close if it rains?
"A little rain doesn’t shut us down!" the festival website site said, but encouraged guests to watch its website with the latest information.
What is the theme for the 2025 Strawberry Festival?
The theme for this year's festival is "The Stage is Set."
"For BerryFest25, the Festival will say farewell to our 35-year-old soundstage that has created so many unforgettable memories as we will welcome in a new entertainment experience and a new soundstage that will provide us the opportunity to bring the best artists to Plant City," said Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson. “
How many years has the strawberry festival been around?
The first Strawberry Festival was held in 1930 "when members of the newly organized Plant City Lions Club conceived the idea of an event to celebrate the bountiful harvest of strawberries."
During and immediately after World War II, the festival wasn't held, but it resumed in 1948. Held annually, it "now ranks among the Top 40 Fairs in North America," according to its website.
In 2024, the Florida Strawberry Festival ranked 29th on Carnival Warehouse's list of the Top 50 Fairs and Carnivals. Attendance in 2024 was 634,779.
Best places to celebrate Mardi Gras in Florida: Where to find parades, concerts and parties
Samantha Neelyhttps://www.news-journalonline.com/story/entertainment/2025/02/21/when-where-mardi-gras-parade-concert-festival-florida-fat-tuesday-universal-busch-gardens/79055520007/
Mardi Gras is a little over a week away. While Mardi Gras is technically only one day, also known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras celebrations and carnivals are held for weeks leading up to the actual day.Here’s when Mardi Gras is this...
Mardi Gras is a little over a week away. While Mardi Gras is technically only one day, also known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras celebrations and carnivals are held for weeks leading up to the actual day.
Here’s when Mardi Gras is this year and a roundup of some cities and theme parks in Florida that are having Mardi Gras celebrations leading up to Fat Tuesday. Many of them are this weekend, on Saturday, Feb. 22.
What is Mardi Gras? When is Fat Tuesday?
Fat Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras, will fall on Tuesday, March 4 this year.
Fat Tuesday is a festive day of indulgence. For some who observe Lent, it's the last night of consuming rich, fatty foods ahead of the long season of fasting and abstinence leading up to Easter.
Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.
It's also referred to as "Shrove Tuesday," coming from the practice of "shriving," which means purifying oneself through confession before Lent, according to the Almanac.
Some Florida cities, like Pensacola and Sarasota, have already celebrated the holiday. As of Feb. 21, here are some of the remaining Mardi Gras events across the state.
What is Lent?It used to be less than 40 days. What to know about the origins of the Easter season
Apalachicola Mardi Gras parade
Apalachicola is holding its 15th Annual Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade tomorrow, Saturday, Feb. 22. In addition to the parade on Saturday, there will be live music performances, a street festival, a beer and wine garden featuring local breweries and even a pet parade!
Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the events. For more information visitFlorida’s Forgotten Coast website or theVisit Gulf County website:
Navarre Beach Mardi Gras parade
Navarre Beach, Florida, is about a 45-minute drive away from Pensacola and is hosting its 39th annual Mardi Gras parade on Saturday, Feb. 22. It is also the town’s centennial and there will be an after party with live music.
The parade is from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. Floats will enter Gulf Blvd from Indiana St and will move east to the traffic light, according to the town’s chamber of commerce.
The after party will be held at Juana’s Pagodas and Sailor Grill, with musical guests Six Piece Suits performing.
Dunedin Mardi Gras festival
Dunedin is on Florida’a Gulf Coast, about a 30-minute drive west of Tampa. Dunedin’s Mardi Gras festival and parade will be on Fat Tuesday, March 4.
Here’sDunedin’s Fat Tuesday celebration schedule:
DeLand Mardi Gras dog parade
For more than 20 years, DeLand has hosted a Mardi Gras dog parade and festival. The parade and following festivities will be on Saturday, Feb. 22. The parade begins at 11 a.m. and the festival closes at 3 p.m.
Here’s theschedule for the DeLand Mardi Gras dog parade and festival this weekend:
Cocoa Beach Mardi Gras festival
Cocoa Beach is also hosting its Mardi Gras festival this weekend, on Saturday, Feb. 22. There will not be a parade this year, but there will still be a party with bounce houses, food and live music at Cocoa Riverfront Park.
Here’s what thetown’s calendar says:
Florida's Hollywood Mardi Gras celebration
The Mardi Gras celebration in Hollywood claims to be South Florida’s largest Mardi Gras celebration and will be held on Sunday, Feb. 23, from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. The festival will feature a slew of entertainment opportunities for all ages, including live music, vendors, inflatables, face painting and more. The main events will be along Hollywood Blvd.’s business district, a few minutes walk from Arts Park.
Here’s a look at some of the event’s highlights. For more details and information about specific events and performances,visit weekendbroward.com:
Universal Studios Orlando Mardi Gras seasonal events
Orlando’s Universal Studios theme park celebrates Mardi Gras for a lot longer than is typical every year, with concerts and events scheduled all throughout the months of February and April. The seasonal event is included with park admission, which starts at $119 per day for guests aged 10 and up.
While venturing throughout the parkwide celebration, guests can find kiosks featuring culinary delicacies inspired by cuisines from around the world — including Beignets from New Orleans, Duck Xian Bing from China and Pinchos de Lechon from Puerto Rico.
Every night of Universal’s Mardi Gras season, there is a parade at 7:30 p.m. This year's parade celebrates 30 years of beads, parades, music and food with six all-new floats inspired by some of the most famous Krewes in New Orleans.
Here’s the list of upcoming concerts at Universal’s two-month Mardi Gras celebration:
You do not need to pay extra to attend the concerts. The concerts are held at Universal Studios Florida’s Music Plaza stage, near the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster toward the front of the park. The shows begin around 8:30 p.m. on select nights.
Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras:Your guide to 2025 concerts, parade and more
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, SeaWorld Orlando
Busch Gardens in Tampa also celebrates Mardi Gras for quite a long time. Busch Gardens’ Mardi Gras celebrations started in January and will end on March 2 – which is the Sunday before Fat Tuesday – every day from noon until closing time. You don’t have to pay extra to enjoy the Mardi Gras festivities.
SeaWorld Orlando only celebrates from Thursday, Feb. 27, through March 2 and holds celebrations again on Fat Tuesday and March 6 through March 9.
Here’s a quick breakdown ofMardi Gras activities at Busch Gardens:
Here’s a look atSeaWorld’s Mardi Gras activities:
Celebration of Greek culture, food & tradition returns to South Florida
Trish Christakishttps://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/celebration-of-greek-culture-food-tradition-returns-to-south-florida/
MIAMI - The season for Greek Orthodox church festivals kicks off Friday and the original Greek fest in Florida is happening at Saint Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church in Kendall.It's Greek Fest time! That means an abundance of garlic, bags of lemons, spirits imported straight from Greece and, of course, endless sweets, though they won't last long."Last year, we sold out of everything,&quo...
MIAMI - The season for Greek Orthodox church festivals kicks off Friday and the original Greek fest in Florida is happening at Saint Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church in Kendall.
It's Greek Fest time! That means an abundance of garlic, bags of lemons, spirits imported straight from Greece and, of course, endless sweets, though they won't last long.
"Last year, we sold out of everything," said Helen Miller, a church member.
Preparations for this weekend's festival have been in the works for an entire year, run entirely by volunteers.
"Ever since the last one ended - even during it - we were taking notes on how to improve and enhance the guest experience. The 10, 20, or 30 of us here today take the entire week off work before the festival. We're really just a big family and when you walk in, expect to be treated like one of us the entire time you're here," said Jason Ceavers, chairman of the Miami Greek Festival.
The final day of prep is no small task. A massive lamb marinates overnight, while a pig and over 500 lamb shanks were braised the night before—for nearly four hours.
"These recipes are passed down from generation to generation. When people pass on, their recipes continue. We honor them and the work they've done before us," Jason said.
This marks the festival's 43rd year and this one is particularly special.
Food is a cornerstone of Greek culture, but it's the history behind these recipes that makes them so meaningful.
"All the pastries are her recipes," Jason said, referring to Elpitha, a beloved church member who passed away shortly after last year's festival.
Elpitha, known as a yaya (Greek for grandmother) to all, was the head baker who always wore a traditional apron. This year, Helen will wear it in her honor.
"She was an amazing lady. She taught us everything we know - an incredible leader, baker and teacher. She's guiding us, telling us what to do and what we're doing wrong," Helen said.
This will be the first festival without her and she'll be in everyone's hearts throughout the weekend.
As the church's biggest fundraiser, all proceeds from the event go toward Saint Andrew's community programs.
"This festival represents our community. We're here, we love what we do and while we want to raise money, more than anything, we want everyone to know that we're here for each other," Jason said.
A weekend filled with love, food, live music, rides and dancing kicks off Friday at 11 a.m. and runs until 11 p.m.
Trish Christakis has been reporting for the CBS4 Miami team since February 2022.
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