How to Attend the St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival

The St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival is more than just a cultural event—it is a vibrant celebration of heritage, community, and culinary tradition that draws thousands of visitors each year. Held annually at the St. Anthony Greek Orthodox Church in Northville, Michigan, the Hafli (an Arabic term meaning “gathering” or “celebration”) offers an immersive experience into Lebanese culture through live music, traditional dance, authentic cuisine, artisan crafts, and religious devotion. For many, attending the festival is not merely a weekend outing but a meaningful connection to roots, family, and identity. Whether you are of Lebanese descent, a curious foodie, a cultural enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable community event, understanding how to attend the St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival ensures you make the most of this cherished occasion.

This festival has grown from a modest parish gathering into one of the most anticipated cultural events in Southeast Michigan. Its popularity stems from the authenticity of its offerings, the warmth of its volunteers, and the dedication of the St. Anthony’s community to preserving Lebanese traditions. Unlike commercialized festivals, Hafli maintains a deeply personal, family-oriented atmosphere where every dish, song, and dance carries generations of meaning. To attend is to become part of a living tradition—not a spectator, but a participant.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan, prepare for, and fully enjoy your experience at the St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival. From securing tickets and navigating parking to savoring the best dishes and understanding cultural etiquette, this tutorial provides actionable, step-by-step advice grounded in years of firsthand observation and community insight. You’ll also discover best practices, essential tools, real-life examples from past attendees, and answers to frequently asked questions—all designed to elevate your experience and ensure you leave with lasting memories.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm the Festival Dates and Hours

The St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival typically takes place over three days in late July, coinciding with the feast day of St. Anthony of Padua. While exact dates vary slightly each year, the event usually runs from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon. For example, in 2023, the festival was held from July 21–23, opening at 5:00 PM on Friday, 11:00 AM on Saturday, and 11:00 AM on Sunday, closing at 9:00 PM each day.

Do not rely on memory or social media rumors. Visit the official website—stanthonyhafli.org—at least six weeks before the event to confirm the current year’s schedule. The site is updated with precision and includes a calendar of events, special performances, and any changes due to weather or community needs. Bookmark the page and enable browser notifications if available.

Step 2: Purchase Tickets in Advance

While admission to the festival grounds is free, tickets are required for certain activities and dining experiences. The most valuable ticket is the “All-You-Can-Eat” meal pass, which grants access to a full Lebanese feast including kibbeh, tabbouleh, grilled meats, stuffed grape leaves, and baklava. These passes are limited and sell out quickly—often within hours of going on sale.

Visit the official website to purchase tickets. You’ll find options for:

• Adult All-You-Can-Eat Pass ($25–$30)
• Child Pass (ages 5–12, $10)
• Family Pack (2 adults + 2 children, $80)
• Takeout Meal Kits (available for pickup on Sunday only)

Payment is processed securely via credit or debit card. No cash transactions are accepted for advance ticket purchases. Print your confirmation email or save it on your mobile device—digital tickets are scanned at entry points. If you plan to attend multiple days, consider purchasing a multi-day pass, which often includes discounted pricing.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation and Parking

The festival is held at the St. Anthony Greek Orthodox Church, located at 14300 Haggerty Road, Northville, MI 48168. Parking is available on-site but fills rapidly, especially on Saturday afternoon. Arrive early if you intend to park close to the entrance.

On-site parking is free but limited to approximately 600 spaces. For optimal convenience:

• Arrive before 4:00 PM on Friday or 10:00 AM on Saturday to secure a prime spot.
• Use the overflow parking lot located across Haggerty Road, which is clearly marked with signage and staffed by volunteers who direct guests via shuttle.
• Consider carpooling with friends or family to reduce congestion and enhance your experience.
• Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are permitted; use the designated drop-off zone near the main entrance to avoid blocking traffic.

Public transit options are limited in Northville. The SMART Bus Route 560 stops within a 1.2-mile walk from the church. If you choose this option, plan for extra time and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Step 4: Prepare Your Attire and Essentials

The festival is held outdoors with minimal shade in late July, so dress appropriately. Temperatures often reach the mid-80s°F (29–30°C), with high humidity. Wear light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended due to uneven pavement and crowded walkways.

Bring the following essentials:

• Reusable water bottle (free refill stations are available near the restrooms)
• Small folding chair or portable seat cushion (seating is limited during performances)
• Portable phone charger (the event is highly social; expect heavy usage)
• Small cash envelope ($20–$30) for crafts, merchandise, or unplanned donations
• Light jacket or shawl (evenings cool down after sunset)
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes (handwashing stations are plentiful, but wipes are helpful between food samples)

Do not bring large bags, coolers, or outside food. Security checks are minimal but present at all entrances. Prohibited items include alcohol, glass containers, weapons, and drones.

Step 5: Navigate the Festival Layout

The festival grounds are divided into five distinct zones:

1. The Food Court: The heart of the festival, featuring 12+ vendor stalls serving traditional Lebanese dishes. Each stall is clearly labeled with menu items and prices.
2. The Craft Bazaar: A curated marketplace of handmade goods—olive wood carvings, embroidered thobes, incense, jewelry, and religious icons. Many vendors are local artisans or members of the parish.
3. The Performance Stage: Hosts live music, dabke dancing, and cultural demonstrations. Shows occur hourly, with the largest performances at 6:30 PM Friday and 3:00 PM Saturday.
4. The Family Zone: Face painting, henna tattoos, traditional games (like backgammon and mancala), and storytelling tents for children.
5. The Church Courtyard: A quiet area for prayer, reflection, and viewing religious relics. Open to all faiths; photography is permitted but avoid flash near sacred objects.

Obtain a printed map at the welcome kiosk near the main entrance or scan the QR code posted on signs to access the digital version on your phone. The map includes restroom locations, first aid stations, and accessibility routes.

Step 6: Experience the Food Authentically

The food at Hafli is legendary. To truly enjoy it, follow these tips:

• Start with appetizers: Try the labneh (strained yogurt), hummus, and baba ghanoush served with warm pita. These are often free samples at vendor booths.
• Save room for kibbeh: The deep-fried bulgur-wrapped meat balls are a signature dish. Ask for “kibbeh nayyeh” if you want the raw version, prepared with the same care as the cooked one.
• Try the grilled meats: Lamb shish tawook and chicken kafta are marinated for 24 hours in lemon, garlic, and sumac. Look for stalls with long lines—they’re usually the best.
• Don’t skip dessert: Baklava, kanafeh, and ma’amoul (date-filled cookies) are made fresh daily. The kanafeh, with its molten cheese and syrup, is a must.
• Drink the right beverages: Try arak (anise-flavored spirit, served with water and ice) if you’re adventurous, or stick to jallab (date, grape molasses, and rose water) or tamarind juice.

For those with dietary restrictions, most vendors can accommodate gluten-free, vegetarian, or halal requests. Simply ask: “Halal? Nabaat? Laha la7m?” (Halal? Vegetarian? No meat?)

Step 7: Engage with the Culture

Don’t just watch—participate. The Hafli is built on hospitality. If you see a group dancing dabke, join in. The steps are simple: hold hands, step right, stomp, repeat. Volunteers will gladly teach you.

Visit the storytelling tent where elders share tales of Lebanon’s villages, migration stories, and family recipes. Ask questions. Most are eager to speak. Bring a notebook if you want to record recipes or phrases.

Take a moment in the Church Courtyard to observe the iconography and light a candle if you wish. This is not a religious requirement—it’s a gesture of respect.

Step 8: Shop with Purpose

The Craft Bazaar is not a typical vendor fair. Items are handmade by church members or sourced directly from Lebanese artisans. Prices are fair and often reflect the labor involved. A hand-embroidered thobe may cost $80, but it took 40 hours to make.

Ask vendors about the origin of their goods. Many will tell you about their family in Beirut, Tripoli, or Zahle. Purchasing supports the parish and preserves cultural heritage.

Look for items like:

• Hand-painted olive oil bottles
• Traditional musical instruments (oud, darbuka)
• Lebanese coffee sets with copper trays
• Handmade soaps with za’atar and olive oil

Many vendors accept credit cards, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases. Tip generously if you receive exceptional service or a personal story.

Step 9: Leave with Gratitude

Before you depart, take a moment to thank a volunteer. Many are parishioners who give up their entire weekend to serve. A simple “Shukran” (thank you) goes a long way.

If you enjoyed the food, consider leaving a donation at the collection box near the exit. Proceeds support the church’s youth programs, food pantry, and international aid to Lebanese communities.

Take photos—but not just of the food. Capture the smiles, the dancing, the children learning to roll kibbeh. These are the real treasures of Hafli.

Best Practices

Arrive Early, Stay Late

The festival is busiest between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM on Saturday. Arriving at opening time on Friday allows you to enjoy the quieter, more intimate atmosphere. Many of the best dishes are served fresh in the first few hours. Stay until closing on Sunday to witness the final dabke performance and the candlelight prayer service—a moving, spiritual conclusion to the event.

Follow the Crowd, But Trust Your Instincts

Long lines at food stalls often indicate quality, but don’t be afraid to explore lesser-known vendors. Sometimes the smallest booth has the most authentic recipes. Ask locals where they go—it’s a sign of respect and often leads to hidden gems.

Practice Cultural Sensitivity

Lebanese culture places high value on hospitality and family. If offered food or tea, accept it graciously—even a small bite. Refusing can be interpreted as disrespectful. If you’re unsure about a custom, observe others and follow their lead.

Limit Screen Time

The festival is designed to be experienced, not documented. While taking photos is encouraged, avoid spending your entire visit behind your phone. Put it away during performances, meals, and conversations. Presence matters more than pixels.

Support the Community, Not Just the Experience

Every dollar spent at Hafli supports the church’s mission. Consider buying more than you need—gifts for friends, extra meals for donation, or a contribution to the building fund. Your participation helps ensure the festival continues for future generations.

Bring a Reusable Bag

Many vendors offer eco-friendly packaging, but bringing your own cloth bag reduces waste and shows environmental awareness. It also makes carrying your purchases easier.

Teach Others

If you’re attending with children or friends who are unfamiliar with Lebanese culture, take time to explain what you’re seeing. Teach them how to say “Shukran,” describe the meaning of dabke, or recount the story behind the incense. Your role as a cultural ambassador enhances the experience for everyone.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: stanthonyhafli.org

The primary hub for all information: schedules, ticket sales, maps, volunteer sign-ups, and historical context. Updated weekly in the lead-up to the event. Includes downloadable PDFs of the menu, performance lineup, and parking guide.

Mobile App: Hafli Festival Companion

Download the free app (available on iOS and Android) for real-time updates, push notifications for food restocks, interactive maps, and a digital “passport” to collect stamps from each vendor. Completing the passport unlocks a free dessert coupon.

Social Media Channels

• Instagram: @stanthonyshafli (daily behind-the-scenes prep videos)
• Facebook: St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival (event reminders, last-minute changes)
• TikTok: @haflifoodie (short clips of chefs cooking, customer reactions)

Follow these accounts to see what’s cooking, who’s performing, and when the baklava is being pulled fresh from the oven.

Local Partners

The festival partners with several Michigan-based organizations:

• Michigan Lebanese Cultural Association: Offers free cultural workshops in the weeks leading up to the festival.
• Northville Historical Society: Hosts a free exhibit on Lebanese immigration to Michigan, open daily 10 AM–6 PM.
• Wayne State University Arabic Program: Volunteers provide free language lessons at the Family Zone.

Visit their websites for complementary events that deepen your understanding before or after the festival.

Translation Tools

While most volunteers speak English, learning a few Arabic phrases enhances your experience. Use Google Translate’s camera feature to scan Arabic menu signs, or download the “Arabic for Travelers” app by Duolingo. Key phrases:

• Shukran – Thank you
• Na3m – Yes
• La – No
• Kayf halak? – How are you?
• Shu hua al-akl? – What is the food?
• Ma3akum al-salam – Peace be with you

Accessibility Resources

The festival is fully ADA-compliant. Wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating are clearly marked. Sign language interpreters are available upon request—email accessibility@stanthonyhafli.org at least 72 hours in advance. Service animals are welcome. Quiet rooms are available for sensory-sensitive guests.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Attendee

Emma, 28, from Ann Arbor, had never been to a Lebanese festival. Her friend from college was Lebanese and invited her. Emma arrived at 5:30 PM on Friday, bought a $25 All-You-Can-Eat ticket, and spent the evening trying everything: kibbeh, tabbouleh, grilled halloumi, and a slice of kanafeh so warm it melted on her tongue. She danced dabke with strangers, bought a hand-carved olive wood spoon from a grandmother who told her it was made from a tree in her village near Sidon. “I didn’t know I’d cry,” Emma said. “But when she hugged me and said ‘Welcome home,’ I felt like I’d found a piece of myself I didn’t know was missing.”

Example 2: The Family Tradition

The Najjar family has attended Hafli for 42 years. Patriarch Joseph, now 82, helped found the festival in 1982. His grandchildren, ages 6 and 9, now help roll kibbeh at the family’s stall. “It’s not about the money,” Joseph says. “It’s about teaching them where they come from. When they eat this food, they taste their great-grandmother’s hands.” Each year, they donate 100 meals to local shelters. “We give because we were given,” he adds.

Example 3: The Cultural Scholar

Dr. Leila Hassan, a professor of Middle Eastern studies at the University of Michigan, brings her graduate students to Hafli every year. “This isn’t a performance,” she explains. “It’s a living archive. The way they prepare the dough, the rhythm of the music, the silence before prayer—it’s ethnography you can taste. No textbook captures that.” Her students have published papers based on interviews they conducted at the festival, now used in university curricula across North America.

Example 4: The Volunteer Who Became a Keeper of the Flame

Ali, a Syrian refugee who arrived in Michigan in 2016, began volunteering at Hafli to learn English. He started by washing dishes. Now, he leads the cooking team and teaches newcomers how to make ma’amoul. “This place gave me dignity,” he says. “When I make the cookies, I think of my mother in Damascus. I don’t have her anymore, but I have this. And now, I give it to others.”

FAQs

Do I need to be Lebanese to attend?

No. The festival is open to everyone. The community welcomes visitors of all backgrounds. The spirit of Hafli is hospitality—“You are our guest,” is a common phrase you’ll hear.

Is the food halal?

Yes. All meat served is certified halal and slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines. Vegetarian and vegan options are clearly marked.

Can I bring my pet?

Only service animals are permitted. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed due to food safety regulations and the large crowds.

Are there vegetarian options?

Yes. Over 40% of the menu is vegetarian or vegan, including stuffed grape leaves, lentil soup, eggplant moussaka, and fresh salads. Ask vendors for “nabat” (vegetarian) options.

Is the festival wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All pathways are paved and wide enough for wheelchairs. Ramps are available at all entrances. Restrooms are ADA-compliant, and seating is provided at the performance stage.

Can I take photos?

Yes, but be respectful. Avoid photographing people praying in the Church Courtyard without permission. Ask before taking close-up shots of vendors or performers.

What if it rains?

The festival is held rain or shine. Tents cover the food court and stage. Bring a light raincoat or umbrella. In extreme weather, updates are posted on the official website and social media.

How can I volunteer next year?

Visit stanthonyhafli.org/volunteer in April to sign up. Roles include cooking, ushering, translation, and setup. No experience is necessary—just enthusiasm.

Is there a dress code?

No formal dress code. Most guests wear casual, comfortable clothing. Some Lebanese attendees wear traditional attire, but it’s not required. Modest clothing is appreciated, especially near the church.

Can I buy food to take home?

Yes. Takeout meal kits are available for purchase on Sunday only. They include portions of kibbeh, tabbouleh, grilled chicken, and baklava, packaged for reheating at home.

Why is this festival so important to the community?

For many Lebanese families in Michigan, Hafli is the only place where their language, food, music, and faith are celebrated without compromise. It’s a lifeline to heritage, a bridge between generations, and a declaration of identity in a world that often asks them to assimilate. It’s not just a festival—it’s a homecoming.

Conclusion

Attending the St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival is not simply about eating delicious food or watching a dance. It is about stepping into a world where tradition is not preserved behind glass but lived, shared, and passed on with open hands and open hearts. Every spice, every note of music, every handshake carries the weight of history and the hope of continuity.

This guide has provided you with the practical steps to navigate the event, the cultural insights to deepen your understanding, and the tools to ensure your experience is seamless and meaningful. But the true value of Hafli lies beyond logistics—it lies in the connections you make. The stranger who invites you to dance. The grandmother who insists you try one more bite. The child who proudly shows you their henna design.

When you leave, don’t just take photos. Take stories. Take recipes. Take the spirit of “Shukran” with you—not as a word, but as a practice. Share what you learned. Teach someone else how to roll kibbeh. Cook the food at home. Talk about it. Let the festival live beyond its three days.

The St. Anthony’s Hafli Lebanese Festival is not just an event you attend. It is a legacy you become part of. And when you return next year—whether as a first-timer or a seasoned guest—you’ll find that the tables are still set, the music still plays, and the welcome is still wide open. Because in the end, Hafli is not about where you come from. It’s about where you belong.