Caputo plays an important role in Greektown SSA #16, and has helped the neighborhood grow and thrive since 1966. Moran has brought beautiful street art to Greektown since 2006. She was instrumental in the hand-painted Christmas Karavakia boats that are currently on display in the restaurant windows around the neighborhood.

While the Christmas tree lighting didn’t have the large crowd it usually attracts due to COVID-19, we’re still thrilled to have the Christmas tree and holiday lights in the neighborhood for the fifth year in a row–spreading holiday cheer to all those who stop by Greektown.

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Stay tuned for more details about the holiday festivities and offerings in Greektown!

The post Spend a Day in Greektown to Get in the Holiday Spirit appeared first on Greektown Chicago.

Due to the geographically strategic location, the Axis powers wanted to set up camp in Greece and gave the country the chance to succumb peacefully without a fight, however General Metaxas stood his ground by stating “no” or “oxi” in Greek. Although his action eventually led to Greece entering WWII, people all over the world admired Greece’s bravery. It gave the rest of the world hope that the Axis powers could, in fact, be defeated.

Traditionally, Oxi Day is celebrated with parades, flag decorating and wreath laying at various military memorials. This year, celebrate Oxi Day with a traditional greek meal from one of the Greektown Chicago’s eateries, and take some time to remember when Greece said “no.” 

The post How to Celebrate Oxi Day on October 28 appeared first on Greektown Chicago.

Mariano’s

Whether you’re participating in Trick-or-Treating this year or hosting a small gathering with friends or family, Mariano’s on the northwest corner of Monroe Street and Halsted Street is the perfect one-stop-shop. Browse the extensive candy aisle to pick out your favorite sweet treats. Pick up some caramel apples and apple cider while you’re at it! Wow your Halloween guests and shop decor and partyware including pumpkins, decorative plates and napkins, tea candles and more. 

Walgreens 

Visit Walgreens on the southeast corner of Monroe Street and Halsted Street and shop the treat of the week! Check online for weekly coupons and save big on candy this year. Walgreens also supplies an extensive selection of candy, indoor and outdoor decor, housewares and pet costumes! 

Ulta  

Whatever you’re dressing up as this Halloween, Ulta has got you covered with your costume beauty needs. Shop colorful eyeshadows, lipsticks, nail polishes and more, and check out the hair extensions, false eyelashes and fun hair color! If you’re looking to stay in for a much needed spa night, pick up face masks, lotions and bubble bath for a relaxing night in.  

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Walgreens

Located at 111 S. Halsted St., Walgreens has everything that students of all ages need for the new school year. Whether you’re heading back to school or restocking your at-home supplies, Walgreens has you covered. Shop calculators, art supplies, backpacks, binders, folders, office supplies, hand sanitizer, printers, ink cartridges and more by visiting the store today.  

Mariano’s 

Back-to-school meals are made easy with a little help from Mariano’s at 40 S. Halsted St. Shop lunch essentials, study snacks, bright start breakfasts, easy dinners and foods catered to specialty diets, including organic, nut-free, gluten-free, non-dairy and more. 

Ulta

Ulta has you covered with your back-to-school look! Impress the class with new makeup, hair, skin and nail care products, and don’t forget to book your next hair or brow appointment. Ulta has implemented new safety measures, including protective wear (face coverings and gloves), increased cleanings, associate wellness checks, social distancing and a new appointment only policy. Visit them at 16 S Halsted St.

The post Greektown Chicago’s Back-to-School Shopping Guide appeared first on Greektown Chicago.

We also wanted to introduce you to Chicago resident Katerina Mallios, who created Follow Apollo, aimed at teaching children about Greek history, traditions and customs in fun and engaging ways. The first book and plush toy is centered around Greek Easter and is available for purchase here. Stay tuned for upcoming themes that share even more aspects of the Greek culture and history that will be introduced in future books. 

The post Greek Easter Traditions appeared first on Greektown Chicago.

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• Hello – Xairete (HEH-reh-tay)
• Goodbye – Antio (Ah-DIO) 
• How are you? – Ti kanis? (tee-KAH-nees?)
• I’m good. And you? – Eimai Kala. Kai Esu? (EE-may Kah-LAH. Kay eh-SEE?)
• My name is… – Me lene… (meh LEH-neh)
• Thank You – Efxaristo! (eff-hah-ree-STOE!)
• Yes – Nai (neh) 
• No – Oxi (OH-hee)

The post It’s All Greek to Me! Greek Phrases to Know appeared first on Greektown Chicago.

• Trixie Girl Blowdry Bar – There is nothing like a new “do” to get out of a winter funk! Trixie Girl Blowdry Bar will bring your hair—and spirit—back to life.
• Pilates ProWorks – Lacking work out motivation? Maybe it’s time to try something new?. Pilates ProWorks offers a variety of classes perfect for every fitness level.
• Massage Envy – Reward your body for all of its hard work with a deep tissue massage from Massage Envy. You’ll be feeling as good as new in no time!
• Greektown Nails – You cannot go wrong with a mani/pedi. Visit Greektown Nails for a little relaxation and pampering.
• GNC – If you’re feeling lost trying to live a healthy lifestyle, GNC has solutions to help you reach your goals in a safe and healthy manner.
• Ulta – With a wide variety of household name beauty brands, Ulta is the perfect place to pick up products designed to help you look and feel better.

Photo via Pilates ProWorks 

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Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Meli Café & Juice Bar. From classic pancakes and eggs to a decadent banana bread French toast, Meli Café offers delicious home-cooked meals that are sure to please the entire family.

Explore the National Hellenic Museum to learn about the vibrant history and culture of Greece. This museum is the first and only one of its kind to feature treasures ranging from antiquity to the modern age, as it highlights both Greek and Greek-American experiences.

Once you’re up-to-speed on Greek heritage, treat yourself and the kids to authentic Greek treats at Atropolis Bakery, Café and Agora. This Greektown restaurant offers a variety of desserts including signature pastries, tarts and traditional Greek baked goods. Relax and enjoy this authentic European-style cafe. Or, get your treat to go, and savor it while strolling through Greektown as you take in our colorful Greektown Lighthouse Display.

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