By Okon Ekpenyong

St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church, located in the Lincoln Village neighborhood on the West Side of Columbus, is hosting its 28th Annual Columbus Egyptian Festival, which started on Friday, August 25 and will end on Sunday, August 27, 2023. Members of the public are invited to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of ancient Egypt.

Attendees can experience captivating traditions, sample mouthwatering delicacies, and explore a bustling bazaar filled with authentic crafts and jewelry, according to the organizers. Furthermore, attendees can dance to traditional Egyptian music and learn more about the culture and history of Egypt.

Inside the church, there’s a tour of the rich history of the Coptic Orthodox Church dating back to biblical times and how faith plays a vital role in this ancient nation.

The festival also includes a vibrant marketplace. Vendors selling unique and handmade items, including clothing, jewelry, and traditional merchandise, offer an excellent opportunity to explore and find treasures.

The kids’ area, complete with a bouncy house, face painting, and other activities, adds to the fun. Since its inception, the festival and church have grown and now have over five hundred members. The organizers are looking to relocate soon to accommodate their increasing numbers.

And so, with the Ohio African Restaurant Week ending this Sunday, the Egyptian Festival is another event to visit that celebrates the rich cultural cuisine of Egypt and Africa. This festival offers an array of dishes and pastries from Egypt that highlight the unique flavors of African cuisine.

Some of the most famous Egyptian dishes include kushari, a combination of rice, macaroni, and lentils; ful medames, slow-cooked fava beans; shawarma, seasoned meat and vegetables grilled on a spit; and ta’miyya, deep-fried falafel and much more.

It will be a chance for the attendees to further learn about the traditional cooking methods and ingredients used in African cooking.

All the volunteers are from various organizations, and the surrounding Egyptian communities do not receive a salary and are doing this out of the kindness of their hearts. The three days are free to the public.

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