It began as a small picnic that only needed minimal work. It later became a two-day event that, because of its popularity, is now a three-day affair that ranks as one of Rhode Island’s most iconic and largest ethnic festivals.

In fact, few summer festivals – if any – require as much work as the Cranston Greek Festival, which will make its annual appearance beginning Friday, Sept. 11 and continue through Sunday, Sept. 13 on the Church of the Annunciation’s spacious grounds at 175 Oaklawn Ave.

The festival’s “Baking Brigade” – which includes countless parishioners and their friends, from teens to seniors – has been working tirelessly to prepare the festival’s always sold-out Greek cookies and pastry.

“And we’re not done baking yet,” said Theofanis “Frank” Markos, who has chaired the well-organized event for upwards of 15 years. “We’re still got lots of work until we open. A lot of people come here just for the food.”

This year’s festival will mark a milestone in the Greek Orthodox Church’s storied history, as it will be the 30th annual three-day event.

“The festival will be held rain or shine under the Big Tents,” Paul Pliakas, the event’s publicity chairman, announced earlier this week, noting that hours of operation will be Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.

Pliakas noted that the Cranston Greek Festival, which some say is a gathering that marks the end of summer in Rhode Island, is expected to attract upwards of 20,000 people – and perhaps more – over Labor Day weekend.

In previewing the historic happening, Pliakas – who can also be found rolling up his sleeves and helping the “Baking Brigade” – said, “our guests will enjoy a wide variety of Greek foods including roast lamb, Greek style chicken, souvlaki, pastitsio, spanakopita [spinach pie] and tiropita [cheese pie].”

“We’ll also have Rhode Island’s best gyros,” Pliakas said of the popular Greek-style sandwich. “Or course, our pastry booth will have all homemade pastry and cookies highlighted with everyone’s favorite, baklava.”

Pliakas also announced this year’s festival will feature Greek coffee and cold frappes as well as award-winning entertainment and music.

The Church of the Annunciation’s highly-acclaimed and award-winning Odyssey Dance Troupe – that’s directed by Dr. Steve Rougas – will be featured in live performances that Pliakas said are scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

“The Odyssey Troupe will wear authentic Greek costumes,” Pliakas said, “and will perform traditional dance from the mainland in Greece as well as the Greek islands. And admission to the performances, as well as the festival, is free.”

Among this year’s major attractions will be imported items from Greece, including jewelry, CDs and clothing.

“We’re also having a cash raffle,” Pliakas said, “with the grand prize being $5,000. Tickets will be on sale throughout the festival until the drawing on Sunday night.”

There will be the always-popular bounce house for children, as well as face painting and tours of the Church of the Annunciation.