ROYAL OAK, Mich. — On Saturday, July 18, a warm summer night and a rich collage of Armenian culture greeted guests as they arrived at the Royal Oak Farmers Market for the eighth annual Armenia Fest. Live music from the Armenia Fest All-Star Band featuring special guest Hachig Kazarian, provided the perfect backdrop for a perfect night.
The festival opened with introductions by MC Vaughn Masropian, co-chairs David Terzibashian and Corinne Khederian, followed by a presentation of flags by the Knights of Vartan. American and Armenian national anthems were led by the Armenia Fest Committee from the stage as the crowd joined in.
As always, a highlight of the evening was a thrilling performance by the Hamazkayin Arax Dance Troupe comprising local Armenian youth trained in the art of Armenian folk dance. Their enthusiasm, beautiful costuming and flawless dance routines brought the crowd to their feet.
Guests enjoyed authentic Armenian food, interesting vendor booths and dancing under the stars to lively Armenian music.
Kudos to the Armenian Fest 2015 Committee members who to date have presented eight successful Armenia Fests for metro Detroit American-Armenians. Operating under the auspices of the Knights of Vartan, Nareg Sharvashan Lodge, committee members are Edward Bedikian, Co-Chair, David Terzibashian, Co-Chair, Ray Boujoulian, Corinne Khederian, Vaughn Masropian, Hagop Alexanian, Paul Kulhanjian, Ken Khezarjian, Shirley Sarkisian, Angela Hagopian Snow, Madeline Thomasian and Pam Coultis.
