Experience the World
at International Festival
The world is coming to the Holy Resurrection Antiochian Orthodox Church on Saturday, February 16th. The International Festival will feature foods, crafts and entertainment from cultures around the world, including the Middle East, Russia, and Europe.
"This Festival is a fundraiser for our building fund. We
first had a 'Building Program Presentation' on Sunday, February
13, 1994. Since then, we purchased property on 5th Street between
Craycroft and Wilmot. The fundraisers are now for the building
of our cathedral," says festival coordinator Lucy Abdulnour.
"Because our church consists of such a variety of ethnic groups,
we decided to feature two of our largest groups this year. For
this reason we selected to feature the Middle Eastern and Eastern
European groups. We will focus mainly on these food groups and
entertainment."
At the Festival, attendees will have the opportunity to experience delicious foods from the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Specialties will include grilled chicken, spinach pies and sausages. The dessert menu is extensive, featuring regional specialties from Syria, Italy and Germany.
The entertainment will be international, as well. "We will highlight an Arabic drummer and folk dancers, Rusyny dancers, a Russian orchestra, a German band and others," continues Abdulnour.
"Because of the variety of food and entertainment, we hope to attract
a wide spectrum of people wanting to experience a good 'home cooked' meal that
reminds them of their home country or childhood while they listen to some ethnic
music."
At the event the church's college group will offer the t-shirt
they designed for the event.
Joyce Swiokla, who is also coordinating the event, is excited about
the many artisans who will be at the festival.
"We will have a henna tattoo artist, an Arabic bazaar, a Russian market, a potter from Iran, a Ukrainian woodcarver and much more. We have over 30 crafters selling their wares."
Other activities at the festival include a jumping castle for
kids, Mexican paper cutting, and Greek rope making.
The International Festival will be held at St. Michael & All
Angels Episcopal Church (602 N. Wilmot) from 11am - 8pm. Entrance
to the event is $1 (food and activities are an additional fee).
To find out more about the International Festival, visit www.tucsoninternationalfestival.org.
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