Established by a handful of N.C. State students 25 years ago, the Triangle Lebanese Association is set to host its 15th Annual Lebanese Festival. This year, however, comes with a change of scenery.

Traditionally held at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, the  chairs of the Triangle Lebanese Association decided to part ways with the Kerr Scott Building. Bearta Al-Chacar Powell, public relations representative of the  association, attributed the low attendance rates of past festivals to the condition of the Kerr Scott Building.

The association will make the move this year from the Fairgrounds to City Plaza on Fayetteville Street. The Lebanese festival will be held there from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. this Saturday, April 6.

Festivalgoers can expect live music, dance, authentic Lebanese cuisine, culture exhibits and even activities for children at the free festivel.

“It’s a celebration of Lebanese culture and cuisine,” Al-Chacar Powell said. “It’s a way for people to discover Lebanon in downtown Raleigh.”

According to Al-Chacar Powell, the association prides itself in its mission to preserve and promote the Lebanese culture and heritage. It hopes to provide an exchange of information between Lebanese, American and other cultures through social and humanitarian endeavors.

“We’re hoping to reach a broader audience this year,” Al-Chacar Powell said. “Our culture dates back thousands of years. The Lebanese are known for their famously delicious yet healthy cuisine and their love for life.”

The asssociation was founded on the principle of community outreach and interconnectivity. in addition to the annual festival, the association has found several  ways to impact the Triangle.

“In March of 2012, [the Lebanese] community came together to support the Khayrallah program,” Al-Chacar Powell said. “It was established in 20120 at N.C. State by Dr. Akram Khater, a history professor and director of the Middle East studies program. The program provides research to preserve and publicize the history of the Lebanese-American community.”

According to Al-Chacar Powell, the Khayrallah program, student involvement and the annual Lebanese Festival aid the association in its main goal of creating a stronger local presence.

“We hope to open a learning center, have scholarships and support various educational programs,” Al-Chacar Powell said. 

Al-Chacar Powell explained that student involvement with the association and the Lebanese Festival extends deep into the N.C. State student population.

“Dabke, a folkloric dance, is one of the dances that will be featured at the festival,” Al-Chacar Powell said. “The dance has been passed down for many generations, many of our dancers are N.C. State students and even their parents, many of which are N.C. State alumni, dance for us.”

Another aspect of Lebanese culture that often draws crowds is traditional food. Hummus, tabouli, kibbi, baklava, gyros and coffee are just a few of the anticipated festival attractions. Hookah will also be available in certain locations.

According to Al-Chacar Powell, the Triangle’s Lebanese population is as diverse as the Triangle itself.  

“Our community is made of so different kinds of people,” Al-Chacar Powell said. “We have entrepreneurs, professors, doctors, professionals, students, moms and dads. Each keep our community alive and vibrant in their own way.” 

The festival is set to showcase entertainment such as Dabke, belly dancing and live music. Cultural booths will be set up throughout and will provide information regarding history and traditions.

“We enjoy the cultural exchange,” Al-Chacar Powell said. “We look forward to a great festival year after year and there’s no doubt this one will be anything less.”