Arab And Chaldean Festival Returns To Detroit For 45th Year

DETROIT (AP) -- Thousands are expected to attend the 45th annual Arab and Chaldean Festival this weekend in Detroit.

The festival, billed as the largest of its kind in North America, will be held Saturday and Sunday at Hart Plaza. Admission is free.

Planned highlights include a history of Arab medicine, folklore customs, a fashion show and children's fair. Musical and dance performances also are part of the festivities.

The event started in 1972 as the Arab World Festival.

Both U.S. Arabs and Chaldeans trace their roots to the Middle East. The Detroit area has large, well-established Arab and Chaldean communities.

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