Greek Independence Celebrated in New Rochelle

In celebration of Greece's independence, the New Rochelle Public Library showcased dances performed by the Greek-American Folklore Society Saturday.

Dancers wore traditional costumes from all around their country, performing dances originating in the mountains of Meteora to the island of Crete and everywhere in between.

The library's community relations coordinator, Barbara Davis, said the audience, which consisted of people of all ages, enjoyed the exuberant traditions of Greece.

She said members of the society, which is located in Astoria, performed dances specific to areas on the mainland and on the islands.

"In full costume, the group presented the  movements  to authentic music, along with the clapping and whistling of dancers and audience members," Davis said, adding the event was a warm-up to Greek Independence Day on March 25.

Audience member Ina Cohen was eager to attend the subsequent Family Days events.

"[The Greek dancers were] very entertaining and colorful," she said.

The free event was a part of New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District Family Days Go Global series in celebration of New Rochelle's 325th Anniversary.

For more information about BID's Family Day's Go Global series see the full list here. 

EDITOR'S NOTE: Ian Redding contributed to this article.