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Annual Lebanese American Festival Begins Today

The Fourth Annual Lebanese American Festival hosted by St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Mission returns to Las Vegas this weekend, starting today, October 7th through Sunday, October 9th. Event hours are Friday, October 8th from 5:00pm until 11:00pm, Saturday, October 9th from 4:00pm until 11:00pm and Sunday, 12:00pm until 8:00pm. There is a $3 admission donation.

One of the goals of the festival is to showcase the culture and provide a family friendly event where there is something for everyone. Members of the community will be able to enjoy a variety of food and entertainment options, including homemade desserts, rides for children and music provided by local Arabic entertainers like The Azzi Brothers and international singer Dani Ashkar.

Last year, over 5,000 people attended the 3 day event and organizers are expecting twice the crowd this year. “Our volunteers have been here all week, prepping food and the property to give the Las Vegas community another great event to enjoy”, says Father Nadim Abou Zeid, pastor of the Mission.

A blood drive hosted by United Blood Services will also be held on Sunday. In addition, there will be performances by a live Arabic bands and local belly dance troupe all three evenings.

About the Festival
The Lebanese American Festival is a fun, low-cost event unlike any other festival in the area. Church tours and displays will showcase the rich history and tradition of the Maronite Catholic faith, which originated in Lebanon, during the three day event. Additional planned activities include traditional dancing, live Arabic bands, belly dance performances, kids’ activities and of course, lots of homemade Middle Eastern food. Some of the delicacies that will be offered during the festival include: schwarma sandwiches, kibbee, hummus, and tabouleh. For dessert, the community can enjoy a variety of Arabic sweets including baklawa. All donated funds and proceeds will benefit St. Sharbel Mission programs including a new school and community outreach program.

St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Mission is located at 10325 Rancho Destino Road, Las Vegas, NV. For more information on this and other events at the mission, please call (702) 616-6902 or visit the festival website at www.LebaneseAmericanFestivalLV.org.