Picture

Waterbury Greek American
History, Ethnicity, Culture, Resources,
Faith, Opportunity, Leadership,
​Contributions, and Influence

Picture

Waterbury
​Greek-American Mayors for the Day

2010 Dimitri K. Koutoupis
2013 Mary Ricciardi 
2014 Constantine “Gus” Koulouris
​2016 Peter Scarbadonis
2022 Brian Papmihalakis Peterson
​2024 Nico Ververis
​2025 Alex James Velezis

Waterbury
​Greek American
Video News Archive

Greek Influence in Waterbury


Greek-Americans have made significant contributions to the city of Waterbury, enriching its history, culture, and economy in various ways. Here are some key aspects of their impact:

Cultural Contributions
  • Culinary Influence: Greek cuisine has become a beloved part of Waterbury's culinary landscape, with numerous Greek restaurants and bakeries offering traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava.
  • Festivals and Celebrations: The annual Greek Festival, often held at local churches, showcases Greek music, dance, food, and traditions, fostering community spirit and cultural exchange.
  • Religious Institutions: The Greek Orthodox community, through churches such as St. George Greek Orthodox Church, has played a crucial role in maintaining cultural traditions while providing spiritual support and community engagement.

Historical Contributions
  • Immigration Waves: Greek immigrants began settling in Waterbury in the early 20th century, contributing to the city's labor force, particularly in industries like brass manufacturing. Their migration stories are integral to Waterbury's narrative.
  • Community Organizations: Greek-Americans established organizations such as the AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association) to support fellow immigrants, promote education, and foster community ties.

Economic Contributions
  • Entrepreneurship: Many Greek-Americans have opened businesses ranging from restaurants and grocery stores to construction and retail, significantly contributing to the local economy and job creation.
  • Professional Impact: Greek-Americans have also made strides in various professions, including medicine, law, and education, furthering Waterbury's development and reputation.

Social Contributions
  • Philanthropy: The Greek community has been active in charitable efforts, often organizing fundraisers and initiatives to support local causes and organizations.
  • Civic Engagement: Greek-Americans have participated in local government and civic organizations, advocating for community needs and representation.


Conclusion

Overall, Greek-Americans have woven their cultural heritage into the fabric of Waterbury, enhancing its diversity and contributing to its growth and vibrancy as a city. Their influence can be seen in the community's cultural events, culinary offerings, and economic development, reflecting a rich legacy that continues to thrive today.

Waterbury
​Greek-American Cultural Resources

  1. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (holytrinitywaterbury.org)
    1. 937 Chase Parkway
    2. Traditionally hosts annual Greek Festival; September
    3. Traditionally hosts annual Greek Mother's Day Festival; May
    4. Annual Greek Festivals in Waterbury since 1972​
  2. Greek Tutors
    1. Justlearn
  3. Order of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (OAHEPA)​​
    1. ​The Waterbury Chapter was established prior to 1938
    2. Active in Waterbury until at least 1946

Waterbury
​Greek American News Archive

Festival May Be Canceled
Due to October 2019 escape of virus from a Wuhan, China laboratory
(rep-am.com) [subscription may be required] 20200509
​Holy Trinity Celebrates 40th Greek Festival in Waterbury
(greekreporter.com)  20120514
Greek Festival in Waterbury
Meriden, CT Patch  20110503

Waterbury
Greek American Events

  • Greek Festival, 2025
    • May 8th through May 11th
    • 937 Chase Parkway
  • Greek Festival, 2024
    • May 9th through May 12th
  • Greek Festival, 2022
    • Sponsored and Hosted by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church 
  • Greek Festival, 2021
  • Greek Festival, 2020
  • Greek Festival, 2019
  • Greek Festival, 2018
  • Greek Festival, 2017
  • Greek Festival, 2016
  • Greek Festival, 2015
  • Greek Festival, 2014
  • Greek Festival, 2013
  • Greek Festival, 2012
  • Greek Festival, 2011
  • Greek Festival, 2010
  • Greek Festival, 2009
  • Greek Festival, 2008
  • Greek Festival, 2007
  • Greek Festival, 2006
  • Greek Festival, 2005
  • Greek Festival, 2004
  • Greek Festival, 2003
  • Greek Festival, 2002
  • Greek Festival, 2001
  • Greek Festival, 2000
  • Greek Festival, 1999
  • Greek Festival, 1998
  • Greek Festival, 1997
  • Greek Festival, 1996
  • Greek Festival, 1995
  • Greek Festival, 1994
  • Greek Festival, 1993
  • Greek Festival, 1992
  • Greek Festival, 1991
  • Greek Festival, 1990
  • Greek Festival, 1989
  • Greek Festival, 1988
  • Greek Festival, 1987
  • Greek Festival, 1986
  • Greek Festival, 1985
  • Greek Festival, 1984
  • Greek Festival, 1983
  • Greek Festival, 1982
  • Greek Festival, 1981
  • Greek Festival, 1980
  • Greek Festival, 1979
  • Greek Festival, 1978
  • Greek Festival, 1977
  • Greek Festival, 1976
  • Greek Festival, 1975
  • Greek Festival, 1974
  • Greek Festival, 1973
  • Greek Festival, 1972
  • Greek Festival, 1971
  • Greek Festival, 1970