Savor the Taste of Tradition: Discover Roanoke's Lebanese Festival Culinary Heritage

Experience the 24th Annual Lebanese Festival in Roanoke, VA

Get ready for a delightful journey into Lebanese culture at the 24th Annual Lebanese Festival! This event will take place at St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church in Roanoke, starting Friday at 11 a.m. It’s a fantastic way for families to come together and enjoy. Kids can look forward to cotton candy and a bouncy house.

The festival is all about the food! From homemade falafel wraps to savory kabobs, there’s something for everyone’s taste. “In Lebanese culture, when you visit someone, they’ll insist on feeding you. It’s all about sharing warmth and hospitality,” says Sam Silek, the Finance Chair at the church.

Volunteers are coming together to prepare traditional dishes like spinach and feta wraps, meat pies, and sweet desserts. For many, this festival is more than just food; it’s a way to connect with their roots. As Terri Ferris shares, “Cooking these dishes brings back memories of growing up Lebanese. It’s a joy to share them.”

Each year, around 6,000 to 9,000 people join the celebration, drawing visitors from nearby towns like Pulaski and Staunton. Not only does the festival help support the church, but it also benefits local charities like Feeding Southwest Virginia.

The event runs through Sunday. Here’s the schedule: