People will be passing plates, breaking bread and swapping stories later this month at a feast to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week.
The free Harmony Feast is a chance to meet new people and try new foods from the many and varied cultures found in the Maribyrnong melting pot.
In its sixth year, the March 20 event will feature a spread of dishes from around the world, including plenty of vegetarian and halal options.
Resident Nayran Tabiei, who has cooked for the feast in previous years and is looking forward to this year’s event, says she will be making rezobazalia va labano khiar – one of Syria’s most popular meals.
It’s made with rice, fried nuts, green beans and meat served with a mixture of yoghurt, cucumber, garlic and mint.
“In Syrian culture, food plays an enormous role in bringing people together,” she said.
“Cooking and serving foods is one of the best ways to show hospitality.”
Maribyrnong mayor Cameron McDonald said breaking bread and sharing meals were a time-honoured tradition around the world.
“Regardless of our culture, when we share food together, you can’t help but be struck by how much we all have in common,” he said.
The Harmony Feast will be held from noon-3pm on Sunday, March 20, at Maidstone Community Centre, 21 Yardley Street, Maidstone.
More Cultural Diversity Week details: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
