Houston Hosts First Lebanese Festival This Weekend

Who knew Mexican actress Salma Hayek is of Lebanese heritage? Or that Colombian singer Shakira is also of Lebanese heritage? How about the late radio personality Casey Kasem? Well, it turns out that Texas also has a large population of those of Lebanese heritage. In fact, Houston's burgeoning Lebanese population is the inspiration for the first Lebanese Festival in H Town this weekend. The colorful festivities begin at 11 am Saturday and continue until 10 pm at the popular Jones Plaza. The fun and food continue Sunday from noon until 9 pm. Lovers of hummus, tabbouleh or arnabeet (fried Cauliflower) will have a chance to indulge in these delicious Lebanese favorites as well as Lebanese national sandwiches such as Shawarma and falafel. The family-friendly two-day event was organized by the American Lebanese Cultural Center, whose mission is to promote education, culture and philanthropic activities on behalf of Houston's large Lebanese community. Local owners of popular Lebanese restaurants will man food booths filled with their country's best known foods. Some of the restaurants include Fadi's Mediterrean Grill, Demassi's and a slew of others. Almaza beer, one of Lebanon's most popular beers, and a selection of Lebanese wines, will also be available for purchase. Entertainment will be provided by folkloric dancers donned in traditional Lebanese costumes. Admission is $5 a person. Admission for children under the age of 12 is free. Guests have a chance to win door prizes at the event. Additionally, the ALCC will hold a raffle and award the first Grand Prize of a new Volkswagon Jetta to the lucky winner. The second prize is no less desirable, since it's a roundtrip ticket to Lebanon. And the last but not least is a third prize of a 55-inch television. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase both Saturday and Sunday. Dozens of Lebanese-owned businesses and professionals in Houston have thrown their financial support behind the first all-out Lebanese Festival in Houston, the fourth largest city in the United States. Lebanon's location in the world, between Syria and Israel, has greatly influenced its delectable cuisine and culture. And while it's often referred to as Mediterrean, Lebanese say it has its own unique gastronomy. Moreover, it was once called Levantine cuisine. So Lebanese food lovers now have a chance to sample Lebanese favorites from a host of participating Houston restaurants. The best part is there are no advance tickets to buy. Simply go to: www.houstonlebanesefestival.org for more details or further information.