Eat Like an Egyptian

Prepare to party like the pharaohs at this weekend’s Egyptian Festival in Seven Hills. It’s the 19th-annual outing of the area favorite, which features tons of food, music, and crafts inspired by the land of pyramids. “We celebrate everything,” says coordinator Layla Rizk.

The fest includes county-fair staples like rides and games. But it’s the yummy ethnic eats that set it apart from other summertime bashes. Grilled lamb, shish kebab, and stuffed grape leaves top the menu. And be sure to leave room for the baklava served at the Isis Pastry Shop, says Rizk. “Pastries are taken very seriously here,” she says. Wash it all down with traditional Egyptian coffee. Inside King Tut’s Bazaar, visitors will discover papyrus paintings, handmade jewelry boxes, and items made out of Egyptian cotton. Plus, St. Mark Coptic Church’s priests will lead visitors on tours of the domed chapel, giving history lessons along the way. “It’s truly a special time for us,” says Rizk.
Fri., Aug. 24, 4-10 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 25, 12-10 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 26, 1-6 p.m.