FLINT —  The Mid-East Festival will return to the greater Flint area on Friday, July 12.  The event will run on that day, from 11:30 a.m. to midnight; Saturday, July 13, from noon to midnight; and Sunday, July 14, from noon to 8 p.m. 

The event includes free admission and boasts authentic Lebanese fare that is prepared, almost entirely, from scratch. The menu, which will accommodate the growing crowd of thousands, includes meat and chicken shawarma, hummus, spinach and meat pies, kibbee balls, grape leaves, falafel and homemade Arabic desserts. 

Church tours and displays will showcase the rich history and tradition of the Maronite Catholic faith, which originated in Lebanon, during the three-day event. Additional planned festival activities include traditional dance performances, a beer tent, a live Arabic band, a cash raffle, children’s activities and plenty of homemade Middle Eastern food.   Saturday evening will also include a fireworks show. 

The festival will be held at Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church in Flint, which is located at 4133 Calkins Road. 

The festival draws attendees from the Flint, Detroit and Lansing areas.   Parking is $3. All food is available for carryout.  Orders can be placed ahead of time, by calling 810.733.1259. 

For more information about the church, or this event, contact the church office at 810.733.1259, or visit www.mideastfestival.com.