The Eleftheria Gala was held Saturday evening at the Pennsylvania Convention Center as the formal gathering of Philadelphia’s Greek Independence Day weekend.
Held April 25 in the Grand Ballroom, the gala was organized as part of the annual celebrations of the Federation of Hellenic-American Societies of Philadelphia and Greater Delaware Valley.
This year’s program honored Steve Kontos as the recipient of the Eleftheria Medal, recognizing his service, business leadership, and contributions to the Greek-American community. Mike Emanuel served as master of ceremonies for the evening.
Kontos’ recognition reflected a life closely tied to family business, faith, and Greek heritage. The son of Evripidis and Evangelia Kontos, he grew up around the baking trade after his father came from Cyprus with the goal of bringing authentic phyllo dough to America.
In 1987, Kontos founded Kontos Foods in Paterson, New Jersey. What began as a family-rooted bakery grew into a company producing flatbread, phyllo, and Mediterranean specialties for markets across the United States and abroad. The video tribute prepared for the evening also highlighted Kontos’ commitment to keeping production in Paterson, supporting employees, and carrying the family business into a third generation.
His community involvement has also extended into church life. Kontos was invested in 2021 as an Archon Notarios of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and is a member of Leadership 100.
The portrait offered a closer look at the family history, business legacy, and community values behind the recognition.
The gala drew community leaders, clergy, supporters of the parade, representatives of local organizations, and guests from across the region. The evening offered a formal setting for recognition, fellowship, and support for the parade weekend.
Entertainment was provided by the Marcantonis Band, joined by Christina Miliou.
The Eleftheria Gala remains one of the central events of Philadelphia’s Greek Independence Day weekend, connecting the historical commemoration of March 25, 1821, with the continuing work of local parishes, societies, schools, and civic organizations.
More from Greek Independence Day weekend
For the full weekend context, see Cosmos Philly’s related posts:
- Philadelphia’s Greek Independence Day Parade Returns to the Parkway April 26
- Who’s Marching in Philadelphia’s 2026 Greek Independence Day Parade
- Greek Flag Raised at Philadelphia City Hall to Open Independence Day Weekend
- Doxology at Saint George Cathedral Opens Philadelphia Greek Parade Day
- Philadelphia Greek Independence Day Parade Filled the Parkway With Flags, Music, and Community