Over the weekend, the Columbia Greek Festival expects almost 120,000 people to visit.

For Niki Stewart, the festival chairwoman, the event offers an opportunity for the community to come together.

“It’s fun, fellowship, family, everybody can come,” Stewart said.

The festival is free to attend, but food and merchandise will be sold. Proceeds from sales go to charities in the area, including Harvest Hope and Oliver’s Gospel Mission.

“First and foremost, we have to give back to God,” Stewart said. “Because he gave us all our gifts, so we give back to him — and that’s to give to charity.”

The festival runs through Sunday and will be open rain or shine.