by Shawn Nowlin
The distinctive sound of Lebanese music has a way of making people of all ages want to dance while encouraging others in proximity to do the same. Another huge part of Lebanese culture is food.
Both were on full display last weekend, when, after a three-year sabbatical largely due to COVID-19, the annual Lebanese Festival returned to the St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church on Cove Road. From June 2 through Sunday, members of the Roanoke Valley community and beyond were invited to partake in the festival occasion. In addition to exploring Lebanese food, dance, and language, attendees also had an opportunity to learn more about the Maronite Catholicism history.
Meat pies, beef kabobs, baklava, shawarma wraps, grilled lamb, and more were purchased the most throughout the three-day celebration. Every item was authentic and home-cooked with onsite dining and take-out both being options.
“Immigrants from Lebanon arrived in the Roanoke area in the late 19th century, and they continue to immigrate to this day bringing with them a very rich heritage,” Chair of Parrish Council of St. Elias Church Ray Farris noted, before adding, “And they started St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church. Since then, we’ve done our best to explain the traditions and heritage with the Roanoke Valley and beyond.”
A creative, engaging way to get a better understanding of Lebanese culture, Carrie Walker says she learned several things last weekend, ranging from children learning French, English, and Arabic in school to discovering that belly dancing actually originated in the Middle East.
While Walker had no idea what she was doing, she still participated in the dance spectacle with others at the encouragement of friends. “My friends knew what they were doing when we arrived,” Walker said with a smile. “They intentionally stood in an area that would force me to get out of my comfort zone. I was nervous at first, but once I saw how much fun others were having, I just let go and allowed myself to have fun too.”
A line of cars formed around the church all three days. Despite less-than-ideal weather at times on June 3, that didn’t stop families from having a great time.
For Pierre Ellis, a longtime volunteer for the festival, seeing so many different demographics come together and embrace Lebanese culture is an awesome feeling that never gets old. “Anyone who attends the festival, whether it be a regular or one-time attendee, is considered part of the extended family. We are already excited about next year’s event,” he said.
More information can be found at http://lebanesefestival.steliaschurch.org.
