The Saint Elias Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival is an annual event in Birmingham, Alabama. It celebrates the history and heritage of the St. Elias Catholic Church.

Some may wonder the connection of the Southern church with Lebanese food. It?s actually pretty simple, really, with the roots of the church traceable to the holy hermit known as Maron and the Maronite Rite. Maron was from Northern Syria and was a staunch follower of the Catholic faith.

This is why, every year, during the anniversary of the St. Elias Church, the Saint Elias Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival is celebrated. The event is completely filled with excellent Lebanese cuisine, live cultural performances, and guided church tours among many others. Admission to the festival is free.