Greek Festival 2026: Food, Family, and Strengthening Fayetteville's Community Ties

On this episode of Carolina Cabinet, host Peter Pappas and co-host Laura Mussler welcome special guest Lia Hasapis for an energetic and wide-ranging conversation spotlighting Fayetteville's 36th annual Greek Festival. Lia Hasapis gives us an inside look at organizing this beloved cultural event, sharing what to expect in food, music, and community when the festivities kick off this weekend.But the Cabinet crew doesn't stop there—frank reflections on the 25th anniversary of 9/11 set a serious tone before the team dives into their signature rapid-fire local news round-up, discussing issues from local school progress and controversial election betting to the ongoing fight over mail-in ballots in North Carolina.Tune in for laughter, sharp debate, and a heartfelt exploration of how traditions like the Greek Festival help weave the rich, diverse fabric of the Fayetteville community—plus details on where to find the best loukoumades in town.FAYETTEVILLE GREEK FESTIVAL — 36th ANNUALSaturday, September 12: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PMSunday, September 13: 12:00 – 6:00 PM614 Oakridge Avenue, Fayetteville (historic Haymount)Cash, card, and euros accepted. Volunteer 4+ hours and get a free t-shirt.CHAPTERS00:00 Show open and introductions04:50 Experiencing 9/11 in silence08:20 Witnessing the second plane hit12:17 Increased base security measures13:36 Data center permitting delay17:54 Postal Service rules and state disputes22:08 Chuck Edwards censure discussion25:08 Teaching accountability to children28:01 Planning the Greek Festival30:41 Nextdoor arguments and frustrations34:20 Growing up in Fayetteville37:25 Childhood misunderstanding in class40:29 Introducing school board candidateMore at thecarolinacabinet.com