Thousands descend on Haringey’s Ally Pally to sample the greatest that Cyprus’s vines have to offer
There were plenty of wines available to sample
Thousands of visitors descended onto Alexandra Palace over the weekend to celebrate the 30th Cyprus Wine Festival, one of the biggest events in the London Greek Cypriot community.
Throughout the two-day extravaganza, Cypriots from all over London and further afield, as well as hundreds of non-Cypriots, were able to experience all things Cypriot – from soutziouko and Keo beer to souvlakia and Commandaria.
The festival was officially opened on Saturday by the Greek Cypriot Minister of Commerce, Industry & Tourism, Georgos Lakkotrypis.
The Cypriot Elderly and Disabled Group were among those groups represented at the event
Addressing the audience, Mr Lakkotrypis pointed out that the Cyprus Wine Festival is considered one of the biggest annual events for Cypriots abroad and is testament of their effort in “maintaining and promoting our traditional values and customs” and “strengthening ties with our beloved homeland Cyprus.”
He added that the festival “which is enriched over time with new products and services, gives visitors the opportunity to appreciate Cypriot wine and our traditional foods.
“he event promotes economic and tourist activities, as well as providing entertainment in true Cypriot style.
“Wine has always been an integral part of our culture; Cyprus was the first country in the Mediterranean, and the second in the world, to produce wine, and our wines, to this day, continue to maintain their unique reputation.”
The Enfield Cyprus Association was present
The exhibition featured stalls from a wide range of groups and individuals, including Turkish participants, the Enfield Cyprus Association, and the Cypriot Elderly and Disabled Group.