Event Highlights

Welcome Night (casual attire) Cretan Club, Springfield

Friday evening, June 28 – There’s no better hospitality than the Cretan hospitality. Come meet your friends from around the country as we kick off the 46th PAA National Convention at a social gathering sponsored by the Marnelakis family. Cretan mezedes, music, dancing, friendship and tsikoudia.

Delegate Registration, Opening Ceremony, Election of Convention Chair, Sheraton Monarch Place Saturday Morning, June 29

Cretan Night (traditional Cretan dress or festive attire) Sheraton Monarch Place.

Saturday, June 29 – This is the most anticipated Cretan event in the USA which occurs only once every two years. We will be entertained by the one and only Michalis Tzouganakis in a rare non-concert appearance, accompanied by his equally talented son, Alexander. Also joining us from Crete is the renown Viglatores Dance Group of Chania performing rare and regional dances of Crete. Most importantly, we will be enthralled by our own PAA/PYA dance groups from around the country.

Cretan Picnic (casual attire) Morgan Road Pavilion, West Springfield

Sunday, June 30 – This afternoon and into the early evening you’ll be able to relax and feast on the all-you-can-eat traditional Cretan and American food and beer. Our Cretan musicians will be there with your favorite music. Fun and games galore for the whole family. Transportation provided to and from the venue.

Golf Tournament (casual attire) The Ranch Golf Club, Southwick, Massachusetts

Monday, July 1 – Golf tournament for those who pre-registered. Tournament sponsored by Manny’s TV & Appliances, and Minos-Crete. For more information, see our website minoscrete.com.

Open Mic Youth Night (casual Attire) Cretan Club, Springfield

Sunday Evening, June 30 - Calling all PYA Musicians! The fun doesn’t stop when the picnic ends. Please join us at the syllogo for a night of entertainment with live music performed by members of the PYA together with famed musician Mihali Tzouganakis. There will be plenty of food, fun, and excitement to go around. You won’t want to miss this event. Do you play a Cretan instrument? Sign up now!

Youth BBQ & Game Day (casual/athletic attire) Elks Picnic Grounds, Springfield

Monday Afternoon, July 1 - Join us for a fun day of outdoor games and activities! Soak up some sun while rocking out to some of the gnarliest tunes! And don't forget to pig out on the all-you-can-eat burgers, dogs, snacks and refreshments! Transportation provided to and from the Elks picnic grounds.

Women’s Event/Cultural Night (festive attire) Greek Cultural Center, Springfield

Monday Evening, July 1– Happy 85th Anniversary Proodos! Here is an opportunity to show how much you appreciate the contributions of the extraordinary Cretan women in your life. Tonight we celebrate Cretan women and culture with great food and entertainment. Join us as we also highlight the 85-year history of the Proodos chapter. Hosted by the Springfield Cretan Ladies Society “Proodos.”

Grand Banquet (elegant formal attire) Sheraton Monarch Place

Tuesday, July 2 – The grandest of all banquets unfolds as our hotel grand ballroom is transformed to provide an evening of elegance. It begins with a cocktail party followed by a delicious sit-down dinner. Meet our honored guests and be inspired by our keynote speaker, Dr. Emmanuel E. Zervos. The evening will conclude with Cretan dancers and music. You won’t want to miss this elegant affair.

Farewell Party (casual attire) Cretan Club, Springfield

Wednesday, July 3 – Gather at the Minos-Crete syllogo once more to say goodbye to old and new friends as we depart tomorrow. Tonight’s party will feature Mihalis Tzouganakis. As always, Cretan hospitality is evident in food, music and dance.

Youth Red Carpet Club Night (Dress as your fav celeb!) Kaptain Jimmy’s, Agawam, Massachusetts

Tuesday, July 2 - Strut your stuff down the red carpet dressed as your favorite celebrity! You're not going to want to miss this boujee soiree featuring the local well known DJ JRipZZ dropping the illest Greek and American beats. A savory buffet is included and prizes will be awarded for our top three celebrity lookalikes! Transportation provided to and from the event. And you do not have to be 21 to join!