Lebanese dance, music, food and art filled the Raleigh Town Plaza Saturday during the Triangle Lebanese American Center’s 18th annual Lebanese Festival.

The festival informed attendees about Lebanese culture and shared Lebanese traditions. Bearta Al-Chacar, a coordinator of the event, was pleased with how the event turned out.

Al-Chacar said it’s nice to see their culture in a good light, rather than how it is usually portrayed in the media. 

“We’re just people who are very peaceful; we love to dance, we love to party, we love to eat, and that’s what most people don’t see, which is unfortunate,” Al-Chacar said.

Imraan Paruk, an attendee, thought the festival was a success. 

“I don’t know too much about Lebanese culture, but the vibe here and the festival is definitely a positive and absolutely incredible energy,” Paruk said. “Also, the people here are friendly, and I had the ability to talk to some of them, and they’re very open to understanding new cultures and learning. I am also still learning.”

WNCN evening anchor Sean Maroney and Al-Chacar took turns introducing performers to the stage.

Lebanese dancers of all ages performed a Lebanese-style dance known as “Dabke” on stage. Belly dancers also performed a couple of dances of their own.

The event also featured a performance from NC State a cappella group Ladies in Red, who performed songs by Tori Kelly, Carrie Underwood and more. This was the group’s fourth appearance at the festival.

Attendees also gathered to watch the tabouli contest, where four different groups competed to see who could make the best tabouli, which is a Lebanese salad that consists of parsley, tomatoes, onions and bulgur.

In addition to spreading culture, the festival is an opportunity for Lebanese businesses to gain customers and publicity by giving away Lebanese and Mediterranean products. Lebanese businesses sold merchandise, shirts, food and hookah.

The festival’s food included gyros and manoosha, which are pastries with meat, different types of cheese and herbs. Desserts included qatayef and kunafah, which is a combination of cream, butter, cheese and sugar.

Last year more than 7,500 people attended the event throughout the day, and Al-Chacar was hoping that this event would draw more people than last year’s. Though the official count hasn’t been released, thousands attended the event to learn more about Lebanese culture.

Funds raised from items sold at the event helped organizers rent out the stage and support the event in the coming years.