Arab American Heritage Month Calendar of Events

3rd Annual Arab American Heritage Month Celebration

Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026

Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Location: Price Center WEST Ballroom

Description: This meaningful celebration will feature a dynamic lineup of speakers and performers. The keynote speaker and performer is Ahmed Joudeh, dancer/choreographer and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Ambassador and participated in the “You Think You Can Dance” show. Ahmad’s dance is a mix between Arabic Dance and classical Ballet, a style he developed creating a bridge between Arabic and Western art. Ahmad graduated from Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Damascus, Syria. An authentic Arabic cuisine catered by our very own Tahini, DJ live entertainment by Lola Almasri, cultural Dabke Dance by Zaytouna, and much more!
This year’s national theme: “Many Voices, One Community" reflects the many Arab American Identities while affirming the Shared Values that Unite the Community.

Seats are limited, so please email: aahm@ucsd.edu. Registration is REQUIRED for entry.

Belly Dance Session

Date: April 20

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: Cross Cultural Center, Comunidad Room, Price Center

Description: Please join us and enjoy a free belly dancing session with Mar, owner and creative director of Move and Radiate, Inc., an empowering and inclusive belly dancing company.  

This event is FREE, scan the QR code to reserve your spot. Registration is mandatory.

For more information, please contact arabamerican@ucsd.edu 

Learn How to Make Knafeh

Date: April 28

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Location: Craft Center Studio 

Description: Knafeh ( كنافة ) is a legendary Arab dessert featuring layers of golden, buttery shredded pastry and a molten, gooey cheese center, all soaked in a fragrant rose or orange blossom syrup. It is a centerpiece of celebration and heritage, balancing a crispy, toasted exterior with a sweet, creamy heart.  

For more information, please contact arabamerican@ucsd.edu