This April, the air in Airdrie will carry the soul-stirring melodies of the Hawa Music Ensemble and the tantalizing aromas of traditional delicacies as the city hosts its very first ArabFest.
Timed to coincide with Arab Heritage Month, the festival offers an invitation to step into a world where history and modern expression collide.
“Arab culture is a tapestry woven from centuries of tradition, artistry, and storytelling,” says Fleeha Ahmad, program coordinator and settlement counsellor for Rocky View Immigrant Services.
“Its richness is felt not only in its history but in the way it continues to evolve in a vibrant, expressive, and deeply rooted way.”
The initiative is a collaborative effort brought to life by the Calgary Arab Arts and Culture Society, working alongside Welcoming Airdrie and the Airdrie Arts and Culture Council.
One of the festival’s events will take over Inspire on April 12 from 1 to 4 pm. The event is free and open to everyone, designed to be an inclusive space where guests of all ages can immerse themselves in Middle Eastern artistry.
The lineup of activities is as diverse as the culture it represents. The Ishtar Dance Collective will perform, bringing Middle Eastern dance to life with a mesmerizing style they have refined over years of practice.
“Arab dance radiates warmth and connection,” Ahmad says, adding that the collective infuses every performance with vibrant energy.
In addition to dance, the festival will highlight the power of visual and auditory storytelling. The Syrian Hawa Music Ensemble is set to perform powerful musical pieces that carry stories of heritage, resilience, and belonging.
“The music carries a soul-stirring depth, blending traditional instruments that speak of love, longing, and belonging,” says Ahmad.
Art enthusiasts will also view stunning murals and displays by Ruba Al-Najjar. The Syrian artist’s work was inspired by the profound question, “Do stones have souls?” Her evocative pieces will remain on display at Inspire through the end of the month, providing a lasting reflection of identity and imagination.
Another ArabFest event will take place on April 17 from 6 to 8 pm at Smitty’s Restaurant & Lounge. According to Ahmad, attendees can expect an afternoon filled with “captivating artistry, heart-warming music, breathtaking performances, and traditional Arab delights to savour.”
“This will be an evening of enchanting melodies of renowned Palestinian musician Ryyan Al Yaffa, whose mastery of the ancient oud brings centuries of tradition to life,” she says.
“His performance will be accompanied by the evocative poetry of Syrian poet Nazer Haymoun, creating a powerful blend of music and spoken word.”
The night will also feature a curated collection of paintings by distinguished Syrian, Palestinian, and Egyptian artists — Nawwar, Sahli, and Hoda — each offering a unique visual narrative shaped by heritage, identity, and artistic expression.
As the community prepares for these landmark events, the goal is simple: unity through understanding. Ahmad is hopeful for a “grand turn out” and emphasizes that the cuisine alone will be a feast for the senses.
“We hope our community learns and enjoys ArabFest which brings people together through a vibrant celebration of culture, showcasing the richness of Arab heritage through art, dance, music, and food,” she adds.
Learn more at calgaryarabartssociety.ca.
