In the spring of 2022, Nick Pantazis and Tom Papadakos, inspired by their love for Greek culture and the convivial spirit of the local "barraki" (μπαράκι) —a Greek word meaning small bar, nightclub, or lounge, often used informally to describe a neighborhood hangout—decided to bring this lively social atmosphere to Chicago. Pantazis, a surety bond broker and new father, and Papadakos, a mechanical engineer working with high-power nuclear pumps, were eager to revive the city's social scene post-COVID.
They pitched their idea for a Greek Independence Day party to their friend Niko Kouretas, manager at Clutch Bar Chicago. The plan was to recreate the vibrant, welcoming vibe of a Greek barraki in one of Chicago’s hottest nightclubs. With Pantazis’s decade of DJing Greek events as DJ PANTAZI and Papadakos’s event organization skills, they were confident of success. Their first event was a hit, with Clutch Bar reaching full capacity and recording impressive post-pandemic sales. This success led to three more events, and Barraki Events was born.
As Barraki Events grew, so did the team. After four successful events, George Markopoulos, also an engineer and DJ known as DJ MARKOS, joined Pantazis and Papadakos. This partnership allowed them to reach a broader audience and spend more time engaging with guests, furthering the authentic Greek social experience.
Barraki Events aims to recreate the lively and intimate social scene of a Greek barraki in upscale venues where Greek music is unexpected. Their events mix Greek music with global house, rap, and hip-hop, attracting a diverse crowd. They also collaborate with reputable liquor brands like Casamigos Tequila and Kástra Elión Vodka for sponsorships.
In just two years, Barraki Events expanded beyond Chicago, hosting parties in Ann Arbor, New York City, Miami, Los Angeles, and Montreal. They also brought Greek musical talents to these cities, adding a fresh flair to America’s Greek music scene.
Beyond parties, Barraki Events gives back to the community. They co-host an annual toy drive with social media personality Yanni Dimoulis for a top children’s hospital and participate in Chicago’s Greek Independence Parade with the Illinois ENOSIS organization. They’ve also sponsored events like the national YAL Conference, supported Greek-American MMA fighter Valanti “300” Atsas, and backed the Greek-American basketball development programme Demo Brand.
With such a rapid rise and widespread impact this far, you may be wondering what’s next for Barraki Events? Check their calendar and join an upcoming party. With a blend of modern and classic Greek, house, and open-format music at stunning venues, Barraki Events promises a unique night out. From Chicago to New York City, Montreal, and even Greece, Barraki Events is spreading the joy of Greek culture across borders. Follow them to catch a Barraki event in your city!
Barraki Events
Instagram: @barrakievents
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