The Ottawa Lebanese Festival: A Summer Celebration for 36 Years!

Live it. Love it. Lebanese Style!

The Ottawa Lebanese Festival, proudly presented by Gabriel Pizza, celebrates 36 years of summer tradition on the grounds of the St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral from Wednesday, July 15th to Sunday, July 19th, 2026. One of the summer’s biggest celebrations is back with delectable cuisine, exciting entertainment, and traditional culture.

The festival is open from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM Wednesday to Friday and 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $3 per person, or a family 4-pack for $10. Entry is FREE every day until 5:00 PM.

FESTIVAL FEATURES & ATTRACTIONS

• JASON ANBARA MORTGAGE BROKER STAGE

Embrace Middle Eastern culture while various artists perform contemporary and customary

music, traditional dances, and live entertainment. A complete schedule is available on the

festival website and Facebook page.

• THE SYSCO FOOD TENT

Savour the best in Lebanese cuisine. Indulge in popular dishes such as hummus, tabouli,

falafel, and shawarma. Also available are a combination of appetizing Middle Eastern platters, including vegetarian selections.

• MCCAIN FAMILY PAVILION

Grab one of the countless delectable food selections and a refreshing drink, then relax with

family and friends under the big tent. Rain or shine, we have you covered with plenty of space for everyone.

• THE TRICORP REALTY SAJ TENT

Offering the ever-popular “saj” bread—made in a time-honoured tradition and prepared fresh right in front of your eyes. It is an absolute must-visit when you come to the festival.

• THE CAZA SAIKALEY TRIAL LAWYERS MIDWAY

The Midway opens at 4:00 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM on weekends. Enjoy carnival rides and amusement games designed for children of all ages.

• SABINO INSURANCE MARKETPLACE

Stroll through the Marketplace and browse a beautiful display of genuine crafts, artwork, and unique offerings from various local vendors.

• ADONIS DESSERT CAFE

Our desserts are the envy of others! Enjoy a delectable selection of traditional sweets along with hot or cold beverages at the Café. You will be tempted to try one of everything.

• CEDARS EXPRESS presented by Shawarma Palace

This is your one-stop spot to grab a bite and go. From savory Lebanese burgers and signature sandwiches to traditional Man’ousheh Lebanese pies, each item is made fresh, crafted to perfection, and fully customizable with your choice of toppings.

• THE FALAFEL STAND

Get your healthy flavor fix at The Falafel Stand, featuring crispy, protein-packed chickpea patties cooked to golden perfection. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, this authentic Lebanese treat delivers pure deliciousness with zero guilt!

• MARK MOTORS PATIO

Take in the sights, sounds, and vibrant energy of the festival while relaxing at our outdoor patio. It is the perfect place to unwind and relish the festival’s cuisine along with a refreshing beverage.

• KS ON THE KEYS BEIRUT LOUNGE

The Lounge offers a unique and inviting space to relax, delight in the company of friends, and get into the nightly entertainment vibe in this 18+ atmosphere. Offering traditional Lebanese Shisha with a selection of premium herbal flavours, you can revel in the nightly entertainment under the stars.

• FRANGIAN PHARMACIES BEVERAGE STATION

Grab a beverage and enjoy the always dynamic atmosphere of the festival with your friends. A full assortment of drinks will perfectly compliment your palate and meal.

• MYPROPERTYFINDER.CA CONFECTIONARY CORNER

Operated by our hard-working young adult volunteers, the Confectionary offers everything from ice cream to refreshing drinks, snow-cones, cotton candy, and candy apples. We also offer limited-edition Ottawa Lebanese Festival merchandise, so grab your swag before it sells out.

• SJC FINANCIAL CATHEDRAL TOURS

Experience the grandeur of the St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral and the rich history of the faith through a private guided tour. Church tours are available throughout the festival on Weekdays from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM, and Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM.

• OTTAWA LEBANESE FESTIVAL 50/50 RAFFLE sponsored by SCOTIABANK

Powered by the Ottawa Senators Foundation, the 50/50 draw is a lottery where 50% of the

sales go to the winning ticket holder, while the remainder directly benefits community programs through the St. Elias Cathedral. Purchase raffle tickets on the festival grounds or via the online platform. The winning number will be announced during Sunday's closing ceremonies.

• CAA DAY AT THE FESTIVAL

CAA is the proud sponsor of Opening Day on Wednesday. CAA members receive free admission all evening—just physically tap your membership card at the gate.

• THE MILLENNIUM LIMOUSINE SHUTTLE SERVICE

Ride in style with our free shuttle service starting at 4:00 PM daily, running every 15 minutes.

Complimentary parking is available at our designated lots, including the Canada Post building and Brookfield High School as well as lots within walking distance. Visitors can also plan their trip via bus and LRT by connecting to the Canada Post Station using the OC Transpo Travel Planner.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

The official Opening Ceremonies, presented by Scotiabank, will kickoff the festivities on Wednesday at 7:30 PM.

Established in 1990, the Ottawa Lebanese Festival celebrates a time-honoured cultural tradition along with the vibrant, deep roots of the Lebanese community in the National Capital Region. This premier non-profit cultural event attracts thousands of Ottawa residents each year.

The festival is organized entirely by dedicated volunteers from the St. Elias Cathedral, located at Riverside and Ridgewood, directly across from Mooney’s Bay. Live it. Love it. Lebanese Style!

For more information, schedule details, or to plan your trip, please visit ottawalebanesefestival.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

Ray Skaff

VP, Corporate Affairs & Public Relations

Email: ray@gabrielpizza.com

Phone: 613.748.0845 Ext. 1309