Dabke dancers at the Middle Eastern Food Festival 2018. File photo by Carlyn Kranking
Holy Transfiguration Melkite Greek-Catholic Church will host its 26th annual Middle Eastern Food Festival, Aug. 31 and Sept. 1, on the church grounds – 8501 Lewinsville Road, McLean. The Festival will feature authentic Middle Eastern food, pastries, music and dancing, as well as vendors, church tours, and activities for both children and adults.
Join in the fun from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31 and 12 noon – 6 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 1. Smell the aromas from the outdoor grills, partake of Kibbee, Shish Kebab, Falafel, Fattoush, Hummus, and Stuffed Grape Leaves, or any number of other delicious menu choices, including a roast lamb dinner at 6 p.m. Saturday evening and all day on Sunday. Then relax with a cup of Arabic coffee and mouth-watering pastry. Choose from Arabic favorites, such as Baklawa, Maamoul, Namoura, or Ghraybeh, or old-fashioned American sweets like cakes, cookies and pies.
Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, join in the Dabke dance (instructors will teach you how) or participate in the backgammon tournament. Children, meanwhile, can enjoy the moon bounce, face painting, pony rides and the petting zoo, as well as participate in some of the many games going on throughout the Festival.
The Festival will be held rain or shine. Admission and parking are free. To learn more, call 703-734-9566 or visit www.MiddleEasternFoodFestival.com.
Holy Transfiguration Melkite Greek-Catholic Church is the local parish of the Melkite Eparchy of Newton (Massachusetts). “Melkite” is used to refer to those Catholics whose ancestry is Middle Eastern and who follow the Byzantine Tradition in worship, theology, and spirituality.