The Nafpaktian and Perihora Society brought the community together on Saturday, November 29, 2025, filling The Merion in Cinnaminson, New Jersey, with live music, dancing, and a relaxed, familiar atmosphere. The annual dance has become one of the area’s steady fall traditions, and this year’s gathering continued that sense of connection.
The evening began at 7 PM with a cocktail hour before guests sat down for a full dinner and enjoyed an open bar. Families, friends, and supporters arrived ready for a night out, sharing the customs they grew up with and introducing them to the younger generation.
Music carried the night from the start. The Tsilimekis Orchestra led the celebration with the sound of Northern Greece. Guest performers Vasilis Kostoulas and Roula Vassos joined from Greece, while Makis Nikolopoulos and Kostas Triandifillou rounded out the lineup. The band kept the dance floor moving with familiar songs and dances that brought people together throughout the evening.
The society also encouraged guests to support Toys for Tots by bringing new, unwrapped toys for children in need during the holiday season. Many took part, adding a practical way to help others at this time of year.
Members of the society shared their appreciation during the night. President Bill Kalavourziotis and Vice President Jon Patouhas thanked everyone for supporting the annual dance and invited the community to the upcoming vasilopita in January and the Tsiknopempti celebration in February. Yiannis Apostolopoulos offered greetings from Greece and spoke briefly about Nafpaktos and its hospitality. Founder and treasurer Christos Balis reflected on the society’s history since 1979 and noted the steady involvement of younger members.
As the event wrapped up, guests enjoyed the music, food, and company before heading home for the night. The society now looks ahead to its Vasilopita in January and its Tsiknopempti celebration in February.