GALLERY: Reggae music, Syrian food combine for lively Bellevue festival

The bandshell at Bellevue Park was transformed into a spirited party on Sunday afternoon thanks to the generosity of a beloved local chef.

George Al Khoury, the owner and operator of Georgie’s Shawarma, invited families to enjoy a multicultural mix of food and music at the east-end's popular public venue. 

Attendees were treated to the savoury tastes and smells of Al Khoury's authentic Syrian food at no cost, while a pair of DJs provided reggae music throughout the festivities.

Among today's food options, none were more popular than the manakish — a popular Levantine food that consists of dough and is topped with cheese, ground meat and a variety of fixings (similar to flatbread pizza). 

A light breeze with some cloud coverage made for ideal conditions as families happily enjoyed their lunch on the lawn.

Al Khoury relocated to Sault Ste. Marie in 2017 after a five-year stint living in Lebanon, the place where he sought refuge upon fleeing from his native Syria. 

His love for food is no secret and he's credited with opening the first authentic Syrian restaurant in Sault Ste. Marie, which has been operating downtown for five years. 

He officially became a Canadian citizen following a citizenship ceremony in Mississauga, Ont. held in November 2022.

— with files from James Hopkin