7th Annual Armenia Fest Wows Metro Detroiters

ROYAL OAK, Mich.—Armenia Fest 2014, Oakland County’s largest ethnic festival, was held on July 12 for the third year at the beautiful Royal Oak Farmers Market, and brought to metro Detroit by the Armenia Fest 2014 Committee under the auspices of the Detroit Chapter Knights of Vartan. Attendance exceeded all expectations.

A year in the planning, the event featured a rich collage of Armenian culture. Local vendors lined the busy market offering home-made Armenian food, including a wide assortment of breads, pastries, kebabs, and other delicacies to enjoy at the Fest or take home for later, as well as Armenian crafts, jewelry, and cultural exhibits. Flutterby the Clown was present to entertain the children.

The festival opened at 5 p.m. with introductions by co-chairs David Terzibashian and Edward Bedikian. The American and Armenian anthems were soulfully performed by one of our local talented Armenian youth, Araxie Tossounian. A highlight of the evening were two skillful performances by the Hamazkayin Dance Troupe comprised of local Armenian youth trained in the art of Armenian folk dance. Their beautiful costuming, enthusiasm, and virtually flawless dance routines brought the crowd to their feet.

Music provided by Vaughn Masropian and the Armenia Fest All Star Band ensemble rang out through the warm night enticing guests to dance, and dance they did. Everyone enjoyed the “Oud Fantasy” number put together by Masropian.

Proceeds from the Fest are earmarked for humanitarian causes. The 2014 committee included Edward Bedikian, co-chair, David Terzibashian, co-chair, Hagop Alexanian, Ray Boujoulian, Ken Khezarjian, Paul Kulhanjian, Shirley Sarkisian, Angela Hagopian Snow, Madeline Thomasian, and Pam Coultis(ian).