Dancing, music and traditional dishes like gyros, souvlaki and moussaka will bring the shores of the Mediterranean to Southern California with the return of the Long Beach Greek Festival.

“This is very similar to what a Greek festival in Greece would be like. If you’re traveling through Greece and you stop at a local festival it would look like this with delicious food, delicious drinks, live music,” said Thanasi Papoulias, a spokesperson for the three-day festival, which takes place Labor Day weekend.

The festival is marking its 75th year as a fundraiser for the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church. The festival is an immersion into Greek culture driven by food, music and dancing.

Here’s what your trip to Greece in Long Beach will look like Saturday through Monday.

The food

Greece is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, and it will be on full display in various booths focusing on Greek specialties.

“The food is the main draw. It’s made there, it’s prepped fresh and there’s a whole array of foods,” Papoulias said. “Everything you can think of under the sun that’s food-related is there.”

Attendees can check out spots like the Taverna Booth, with options like grilled octopus, marinated lamb chops, pork and chicken souvlaki and feta fries.

Of course there will be a gyro booth serving beef and lamb options. And don’t worry, veggie lovers: Meatless options like dolmathes and spanakopita, which are spinach and feta pies, are on the menu too.

The music

Opa! Music will be provided by the Olympians, who will perform throughout the weekend. Dancing is a big part of the culture as well, so get your groove on at the open Greek dance lessons, or catch performances by professional groups.

Merch

The festival includes a marketplace where people can buy products imported from Greece like olive oils and chocolate as well as jewelry, art and other souvenirs.

“The marketplace here has the best of the best. If you want something direct from Greece, chances are it will be available there,” Papoulias said.