15th Annual Dearborn Arab International Festival

DEARBORN, Mich., June 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On June 18-20 the American Arab Chamber of Commerce in partnership with its Co-Host Ford Motor Company will transform 14 blocks on Warren Avenue (between Schaefer and Wyoming) into the largest Arab-American celebration in the nation.

The 15th Annual Dearborn Arab International Festival is a free family-centered cultural celebration nestled in an old-world neighborhood bustling in ethnic pride and entrepreneurial spirit. Over 300,000 people from across the country and Canada are expected to attend the street festival filled with live music, dance, children's entertainment, carnival rides and Mediterranean cuisine.

Passes to the all new IMAX theater experience Arabia now showing at the Detroit Science Center will be given away at the festival. Another highlight is the first ever "International Idol Contest." Sponsored by Four Star Health the contest will be held on June 19 beginning at 1:00 p.m. on the main adult stage. In addition to cash prizes the first place winner will sing live on stage that evening before thousands of people. Everyone is invited to the Halal hot dog eating contest sponsored by Leo's Coney Island in Dearborn; cash prizes will be awarded to those who eat the most hot dogs.

Once again, there will be international food booths offering authentic Mediterranean delights such as schwarma sandwiches, shish kabob, hummous, fettoush, salad and baklava. Other attractions include a large carnival with rides for all ages, interactive children's tent, live world music stage, artisan's tent, Arab merchandise, and a giant old-fashioned Ferris wheel overlooking East Dearborn.

"It is the most vibrant time of the year," said American Arab Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Fay Beydoun. "Every year more and more people of all races and cultures are joining us in celebrating our rich heritage. It also adds an economic boost to the local economy."

The festival is also produced in cooperation with the City of Dearborn and the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services. Ford Motor Company is the Co-Host; AT&T is the adult main stage sponsor; and the Detroit Science Center is sponsoring the VIP reception.

For additional information about this free-festival, please contact the American Arab Chamber of Commerce (313) 945-1700 or visit us on the web www.americanarab.com

SOURCE American Arab Chamber of Commerce