Celebrating Armenian Heritage: A Vibrant Tapestry of Culture, Cuisine, and Community

Metro Detroit is a melting pot of rich and diverse ethnic communities, and the proud and enduring Armenian population is a shining example. On Saturday, July 20th, the Royal Oak Farmers Market will come alive with a celebration of all things Armenian, from delectable cuisine to captivating music and dance.

Preserving the Essence of Armenian Heritage in the Heart of Metro Detroit

A Vision to Bring the Community Together

The Armenia Fest has its roots in the vision of famed Detroit entrepreneur Edgar Hagopian, who 16 years ago launched the first-ever ethnic festival in Birmingham's public parks. Hagopian's goal was to create an event that would unite the four corners of the Armenian community in Metro Detroit, allowing them to share and promote their rich cultural heritage.The festival has since evolved, moving to the more accommodating Royal Oak Farmers Market, where it has found a permanent home. The new location has proven to be more cost-efficient and offers better amenities, including a sheltered and air-conditioned pavilion for vendors, ample parking, and expansive outdoor tent space.

Celebrating the Vibrant Armenian Diaspora

The Armenia Fest is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Armenian community in Metro Detroit. Vaughan Masropian, the event's entertainment chairperson, emphasizes the significance of bringing together the four major Armenian churches in the area – the Armenian Congregational, St. Vartan Armenian Catholic Church, St. John Armenian Church of Southfield, and St. Sarkis Armenian Church in Dearborn."To come out and see these children and young adults dance to the music of our homeland, it just reassures your heart that the Turks miserably failed in removing our culture and removing us from the face of the earth," Masropian says. "And after 100-some years, we're still going strong. So, that's what this dance group means to me."

A Tapestry of Music, Dance, and Culinary Delights

The Armenia Fest promises a rich tapestry of cultural experiences for attendees. Masropian, who is also a founding member of the Johnites Band, has brought in talented musicians from across the country to perform. This year, the festival will feature the return of Michael Kamalian, a young clarinetist from Racine, Wisconsin, who is learning and embracing Armenian music.In addition to the musical performances, the festival will showcase the vibrant dance traditions of the Armenian culture. The Hamazkayin Arax Dance Group, featuring performers ranging from young children to young adults, will present formal dance presentations that celebrate the regional choreography of Armenian villages.The culinary delights of the Armenian culture will also be on full display, with a plethora of vendors and individuals offering a tantalizing array of dishes. From the spicy Armenian beef of Mr. Basterma to the traditional Shish kebab, pita bread, rice pilaf, Lamajoon (Armenian flat bread pizza), and the beloved Paklava pastries, the festival promises to be a true feast for the senses.

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

The Armenia Fest is not just a celebration of the present, but also a tribute to the past and a commitment to the future. This year, the festival's proceeds will benefit the Manoogian Manor in Livonia, a 501(c)(3) organization that provides a home for the Armenian aged. Established in 1949 by 13 Armenian women, Manoogian Manor has been recognized for its excellence, winning the Best of Livonia Award for two consecutive years and being inducted into the Livonia Business Hall of Fame.The festival also features a range of children's activities, including face painting, balloon art, and entertainment by Mr. Mouse, ensuring that the next generation of Armenian-Americans can engage with and celebrate their cultural heritage.With free admission, free parking, and a host of prizes and raffles throughout the night, the Armenia Fest promises to be a truly inclusive and accessible celebration of the vibrant Armenian community in Metro Detroit.