Arab International Festival Postponed for 2013
The Arab International Festival has been postponed for the summer of 2013. The one year hiatus will allow organizers to explore all opportunities for the upcoming year. “With the move to a new location, Ford Woods Park, we needed more time to ensure we provide a quality event that the community has come to expect from us. The purpose of the 18-year-old annual celebration has been to enhance economic vitality of the region, cultural awareness and promotion of business along Warren Avenue in Dearborn, Michigan and other members of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce which sponsors the free, family-friendly event,” said Fay Beydoun, director of the Arab International Festival.
The organizer, supporters and participating organizations will utilize this opportunity to increase the focus of the festival in showcasing the rich heritage of the community and the American-Arab owned shops and restaurants that have made Dearborn home.
Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr. said Dearborn remains supportive of the Arab International Festival and the American Arab Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to its continued success promoting businesses that help drive the city’s economy and that make the community a cultural destination for visitors,” he said.
Ms. Beydoun thanked members, residents, visitors, vendors and sponsors for their support of the Arab International Festival over the last 18 years, and stated: “The future direction of the Arab International Festival is still the same. This break will allow us to focus on improving the festival and further highlight the American-Arab Culture which is celebrated year in and year out with this wonderful event.”