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MEDIA CONTACT:
Rachelle Khalaf
(713) 805-8075
Celebrate the Flavors, Music, and Warmth of the Mediterranean
The 3rd Annual Mediterranean Festival is now a two-day celebration, hosted by St. George Orthodox Christian Church in Houston.
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Hosted by St. George Orthodox Christian Church in Houston
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HOUSTON, TX (Sept. 14, 2025) – Houston’s own St. George Orthodox Christian Church invites the community to experience the 3rd Annual Mediterranean Festival—now a two-day event—on Fri., Oct. 24, and Sat., Oct. 25, at 5311 Mercer St. Guests of all ages are welcome to gather for a weekend filled with authentic cuisine, lively entertainment, and the spirit of Mediterranean hospitality.
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“This festival is a reflection of the warmth and generosity that define our faith and culture,” said Rev. Fr. James Shadid, head priest of St. George Christian Orthodox Church. “For more than 60 years, St. George has been part of the West University community, and the festival is one of our favorite ways to open our doors and invite everyone in. Ahlan wa sahlan! All are welcome.”
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In 2024, 5,000 people came to enjoy the one-day celebration, and this year’s expanded format is expected to draw an even larger crowd. Proceeds from the event will help fund the construction of a new Fellowship Activity Center, a space designed to strengthen community life at St. George.
“Festivals like this allow us to share the joy of our traditions with friends, neighbors, and newcomers,” said Rana Abercia, chairwoman of the Mediterranean Festival Committee. “It’s more than food and music—it’s an opportunity to build connections, create memories, and extend the heart of Mediterranean culture to Houston.”
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For event details or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Rana Abercia at 281-221-5046.
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Mediterranean Festival Information
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Date: Fri., Oct. 24 and Sat., Oct. 25
Time: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Location: St. George Orthodox Christian Church
5311 Mercer St., Houston
Price: $5 entrance fee
Children under 4 free
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Event Offerings:
Experience the culture:
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Church sanctuary tours (Fri/Sat)
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Henna tattoo artist (Fri/Sat)
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Arabic music sponsored by Sawma Entertainment
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Live performances (Fri/Sat):
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St. George Dabke Troupe
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LED drum dances
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Arabic singers Chris Hawat and Jabbour
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Solo performance by oud instrumentalist George Haddad
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Hookah lounge for adults 18+, ID required – sponsored by Fantasia (Fri/Sat)
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For the foodie:
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Savory Foods:
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Chicken and beef kabobs
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Kafta Burgers, a traditional ground beef with spices, parsley and onions in a pita pocket with sumac onions, pickles, and tahini sauce.
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Gyros
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Chicken shawarma sandwiches
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Falafel sandwiches
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Man'oushe – baked flat bread with either zaatar, or cheese, or both
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Pizza
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Sweet Foods:
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Anise cookies
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Ghoraybe – an Arabic shortbread cookie
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Kanafe – baked shredded phyllo dough layered with sweet cheese, and topped with an orange blossom simple syrup
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Baklawa – layers of phyllo dough, stuffed with cashews or pistachios and topped with orange blossom simple syrup
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Booza Ice Cream – a traditional Palestinian ice cream that stretches because it is made with mastic (natural gum)
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Activities for all ages:
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For the kids:
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Face painting (Fri/Sat)
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Balloon artist (Fri/Sat)
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Petting zoo (Sat Only)
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Hair tinsel (Sat Only)
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Cotton Candy (Fri/Sat)
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Mini Pumpkin Patch (Fri/Sat)
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Fall-themed arts and crafts (Fri/Sat)
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For the adults:
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Vendor’s marketplace (Fri/Sat)
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Silent auction (Fri/Sat)
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Raffles (Fri/Sat)
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