This foodie extravaganza is a must-visit for those who want to experience the vibrant traditions of the region
By: Hafsa Hanif
The Taste of Middle East Winter Festival, taking place from March 17 to 19th was a feast for the senses that left attendees completely enchanted. I had the opportunity to tantalize my taste buds with mouth-watering traditional dishes and was mesmerized by the vibrant culture of SWANA (Southwest Asian and North Africa) on full display.
Celebrating the vibrant culinary traditions of the region, this festival allowed attendees to indulge in a variety of delicious dishes, accompanied by live music and dance performances that showcase the beauty and diversity of SWANA cultures. From the performances to the food, the festival was a true celebration of the region's rich history and traditions.
Founded and directed by Hamsa Diab, an enthusiastic promoter of her community's rich heritage, The Taste of the Middle East Festival celebrates Arab music, art and culture. After attending many festivals around the city, Diab realized that her culture was underrepresented, so she decided to create her own event to showcase its beauty and hospitality.
Taste of Middle East performance by Kazdoura band on stage (Hafsa Hanif/CanCulture).
The first Taste of the Middle East festival took place in the summer of 2018 at Dundas Square and has since become a prominent cultural gathering, featuring over 67 local artists and attracting a diverse audience. This year, the festival returned with its first-ever winter gathering, held at the Mississauga Convention Centre in Mississauga, Ont.
One of the festival's main attractions is the Beirut ya Beirut concert, a fusion of Arab and western music with an emphasis on the Lebanese capital's cultural and artistic diversity. Notable performers include Dana Salah, who travelled from Jordan to attend the event, and Danny Ashkar, who adds an electronic twist to traditional Arab music. However, Diab emphasizes that it's not only about the specific artists but also the general theme and atmosphere that make the festival unique and memorable. Diab highlights Salah as her favourite performer at the festival, expressing admiration for Salah’s talent.
Overall, Diab is proud of what Taste of the Middle East has accomplished so far and hopes to expand its reach and impact in the future.
Dala Salah performing during the third day of the festival on stage (Hafsa Hanif/CanCulture).
Sahar Harb, also known as the "Blue Jellybean," has been running her own custom work and personalization business for over a decade now. Using her laser cutter and woodworking skills, Harb creates beautiful pieces of art, including lanterns, gift tags and Ramadan lights, which she sells during the holy month.
Growing up in Canada, Harb was inspired by the beauty of Christmas lights and decorations. She wanted to create a similar atmosphere for Muslims during Ramadan and share the warmth and joy that these lights bring to her own home with others.
With her beautiful and unique creations, Harb is helping to create a more inclusive and connected community, one piece of art at a time. She said she believes that events like these bring people of different faiths together, creating a stronger community.
The Blue Jellybean booth, selling Sahar Harb’s custom creations at the Taste of the Middle East festival (Courtesy of Sahar Harb)
And the community-making goes beyond the performers and vendors, but to those offering a helping hand behind the scene. "I was actually interested, and I want to learn more about these cultures, so it made me volunteer," said Evelyn Choi, a first-time attendee.
Choi shared her experience with the food, "I learned [about] this new food that I have never tried because it's not really my culture,” she said.
Mary Hanna, a Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) student and Lebanese-Canadian, expressed her joy for the event and the opportunity to connect with her culture. "I came to this event because I love my culture. I wanted to eat and explore vendors and hang out with my good friend, and I was just excited to check out something like this," Hanna said.
A standout for Hanna? The chai tea from Thai Chai.
Hanna said she viewed the festival as a tremendous chance for SWANA community members to highlight their distinctive and dynamic history and art.. She was particularly delighted by the venue's initiatives to encourage cultural diversity and inclusiveness.
“Everything is so exhilarating, the food and the music,” Hanna said. “It really does a brilliant job of showcasing the soul of our community."
The photo booth section where patrons take pictures at the Taste of Middle East Festival (Hafsa Hanif/CanCulture).
“We’re celebrating everyone,” Diab said.
If you're looking to experience the beauty of Arabic culture firsthand, be sure to check out the Taste of the Middle East festival when it returns in the summer. With its vibrant performances, delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, it's a festival that's not to be missed.