Family-centered fun with traditional music, dance, and 30-international food booths

DEARBORN — The 13th Annual Dearborn Arab International Festival is set for June 20-22, presented by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce along with ACCESS, the Lebanese American Heritage Club and the City of Dearborn.

The festival will transform more than 14 blocks on Warren Avenue (between Schaefer Road and Wyoming Avenue) into the largest Arab American celebration in the nation.

A free, family-centered cultural celebration — which typically attracts over 300,000 people from Michigan, the Midwest, and Canada — the festival will feature ethnic performances representing the diverse heritage of the people of Metropolitan Detroit.

It boasts a great number of amusements, live local and international musical acts, 30 international food booths, a Middle Eastern fashion show, arts and crafts, a children’s tent, artisans, Arab merchandise, and a large carnival featuring a giant old-fashioned Ferris Wheel that overlooks East Dearborn.

“Ford Motor Company is committed to supporting initiatives that embrace diversity within our community,” said Jim Villa, president of Ford Motor Company Fund & Community Services, a major sponsor of the festival.

“We recognize the positive impact diversity has on progress and will continue to work with organizations such as the American Arab Chamber of Commerce to achieve a better global community.”

“This larger than life street fair is a place where inclusiveness is celebrated with exceptional Arab hospitality, authentic food, music, and dancing for people of all ages. It’s a weekend of guaranteed fun in one of Michigan’s treasured, unique communities. So wake up and smell the hummus at the 13th Annual Dearborn Arab International Festival,” said James Allen, Chairperson of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce.

Festival Hours

Friday, June 20 – 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Saturday, June 21 – noon – 10 p.m.

Sunday, June 22 – noon until 8 p.m.

The festival is free to the public and a free shuttle service every 15 minutes will be available from Davenport University, located at Michigan Avenue and Oakman Boulevard.

For more information, call (313) 945-1700 or visit www.americanarab.com.