For more than a century, Lebanese and Middle Eastern families have called California's Central Valley home. They brought with them a rich heritage of faith, family, hospitality, and traditions that have been passed down through generations, from treasured recipes and music to dancing, language, and celebrations.

Hosted by St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church, the inaugural Central Valley Lebanese Festival is a celebration of that legacy and an invitation to experience the warmth of our culture firsthand.

Whether you're reconnecting with your roots or discovering Lebanese traditions for the first time, you'll enjoy authentic homemade cuisine, live entertainment, cultural performances, family-friendly activities, and the welcoming spirit that defines our community.

Join us as we celebrate our heritage, share our traditions, and create a new annual tradition for Stockton and the Central Valley.

We can't wait to welcome you on October 3rd!

See the Menu See the Schedule

Who Comes

A regional crowd, all day long

The festival pulls from across the Central Valley and beyond. Families pack the grounds from Stockton, Modesto, Lodi, Tracy, and Manteca, with plenty of visitors making the easy drive from the greater Sacramento area too.

Food lovers who plan their whole Saturday around the menu and try a little of everything.
Makers'-market shoppers who come specifically to buy handmade jewelry, art, and gifts.
Lebanese-American families reconnecting with heritage, food, and friends across generations.
Curious neighbors who heard about it and want to experience Lebanese culture for the first time.

For vendors, that mix is the whole opportunity: an engaged, generous, ready-to-buy audience that stays for hours. See what makes it worth a booth on our Become a Vendor page.

Good to Know

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about the festival itself. Have another question? Contact our team.

What is the Central Valley Lebanese Festival?

It's a one-day celebration of Lebanese food, music, dance, and culture held in Stockton, California, in the heart of the Central Valley. 2026 is its inaugural year, and we expect more than 1,000 guests on the day.

Where is the Central Valley Lebanese Festival held?

The Festival takes place in St. Sharbel Garden, 4981 E Eight Mile Road, Stockton, CA 95212.

When is the 2026 Lebanese festival in Stockton?

The 2026 festival is Saturday, October 3, 2026 — a single-day event running 11 AM–11 PM.

Is this the first Central Valley Lebanese Festival?

Yes — 2026 is the inaugural Central Valley Lebanese Festival, launched by St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church and the local Lebanese-American community to share its food, music, and heritage with all of the Central Valley.

Is the Central Valley Lebanese Festival family-friendly?

Yes. The festival is built for families, with a kids' area, live dabke dancing, cultural exhibits, and a full lineup of food and craft booths for families across the Central Valley.

How much does it cost to attend the Central Valley Lebanese Festival?

Admission is $5 per person at the gate — the festival is open to the public. Food, drinks, and goods are sold à la carte by vendors on the grounds. The 2026 festival runs Saturday, October 3, 11 AM–11 PM.

Who hosts the Central Valley Lebanese Festival?

The festival is hosted by St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church and the Lebanese community of the Central Valley, and is named for the parish's patron, St. Sharbel Makhlouf (1828–1898), the Lebanese Maronite monk-hermit. It is a celebration of Lebanese food, music, dance, and Maronite heritage shared with all of California's Central Valley.

Join Us

Come celebrate with us on October 3

Everyone is welcome. Here's when and where to find us.

Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
Time: 11 AM–11 PM
Place: St. Sharbel Garden
4981 E Eight Mile Rd, Stockton, CA 95212

Plan Your Visit Directions & Parking