Arab American Heritage Month is an important celebration that recognizes the achievements and the rich culture of Arab Americans in various fields being brought to the forefront of society.
The annual commemoration of this month serves as a way to promote cultural diversity, understanding, and inclusion in the United States and right here in Florida. According to the American Arab Institute, there are over 3.5 million Arab Americans residing in the United States, where Florida is home to over 300,000. Arab Americans have made significant contributions to American society throughout history, including in fields such as science, medicine, engineering, education, and entertainment.
Team Anna is proud to support, celebrate, and empower Arab Americans of any and all ethnicities this month and every month. From the incredible supportive community groups and nonprofits to the amazing small businesses and restaurants, we applaud, commemorate, and honor the enriching culture and heritage of Arab Americans across Florida and in our very own House District 42.
Check out Arab American community groups, non-profit organizations, small businesses, and some celebratory events below:
Community Groups & Organizations within Central Florida:
Organization: Arab American Community Center of Florida
Organization: Islamic Society of Central Florida
Organization: Islamic Center of Orlando
Organization: Muslim Social Services – Seeds of Paradise Food Pantry
Group: Arab American Student Association at UCF
Group: Egyptian Student Association at UCF
Group: Florida Syrian Alliance
Group: Florida Arab Social
Group: Lake Nona Muslim Community
Group: Muslim Association at UCF
Group: Muslim Ambassadors for Peace Club at Valencia
Group: Muslim Student Union at Rollins
Group: Palestinian Student Association at UCF
Group: Omani Student Association at UCF
Arab American businesses within Central Florida:
Restaraunt: Cedar Halal Food and Grill
Address: 12100 E Colonial Dr, Orlando
Restaurant: Flame Kabob
Address: 7536 Dr. Phillips Blvd, Suite 360, Orlando
Restaurant: Habibi Lebanese Grill
Address: 2451 S Hiawassee Rd, Orlando
Restaurant: Maraya at Sabrina’s Restaurant
Address: 8100 Crystal Clear Lane, Orlando
Store: Adam Halal Meats or Mera Bazar
Address: 7333 Lake Underhill Rd, Orlando
Store: Alexandria Market
Address: 6148 Hanging Moss Rd, Orlando
Store: Apna Bazaar
Address: 9404 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando
Store: Big Bazaar
Address: 485 S Kirkman Rd Unit 108, Orlando
Store: International Food Market
Address: 977 N Goldenrod Rd, Orlando
Store: Muslim Memories
Address: 12236 S Apopka Vineland Rd, Orlando
Events within Orange County:
Event Name: Open Mosque Invitationals
Description: Learn more about Islam and the Muslim community during multiple Saturday dates! There will be a presentation, free international lunch, and a Q & A to answer all questions. This series of events is brought to you by the Islam Society of Central Florida.
Location: Center For Peace, 2042 Rouse Rd, Orlando
Date & Time: Next date is April 1st, 3:00PM – 5:00PM, and April 15th, 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Details: Reserve your spot here
Event Name: Arab American Heritage
Description: Children will explore stories and activities that introduce them to the Arabic language and teach them about understanding and celebrating cultures outside of their own. Recommended for ages 6-8. This event will introduce children to the Arabic language through story, a sensory activity, and a puzzle-based activity.
Location: Washington Park Branch Library (4/5), 5151 Raleigh St, Unit A, Orlando | Eatonville Branch Library (4/13), 200 E Kennedy Blvd, Eatonville | Southeast Branch Library (4/15), 5575 SR-436 N, Orlando
Date & Time: Wednesday April 5th, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Thursday, April 13th, 3:45PM – 4:45PM | Saturday, April 15th, 10:30AM – 11:30AM
Details: Register here
Event name: Fast-a-thon
Description: The University of Central Florida Muslim Student Association is hosting an interfaith night of bonding, building bridges, and breaking bread together at their formal Ramadan Interfaith dinner.
Location: UCF Pegasus Ballroom. 12715 Pegasus Dr., Orlando FL 32816
Date & time: Saturday April 8th, 6:15PM
Details: Reserve your spot here
Event name: Arab American Community Center Iftar Ramadan
Description: The AACC is hosting their annual Iftar for Ramadan in Maitland, Florida on April 10th, all are welcome and friends and family are encouraged to come. Iftar is the evening meal that Muslims eat to break their fast during the month of Ramadan.
Location: Sheraton Orlando North Hotel 600 N Lake Destiny Rd, Maitland
Date & time: Monday April 10th, 7:00PM
Details: Get your tickets here
Event name: Arabic Storytime
Description: Listen to storytime in Arabic. Connect with friends and sign the Arabic alphabet song. Participate in circle time, interactive songs, play and craft time! Recommended for ages 3-6 years old.
Location: Alafaya Branch Library – Meeting Room 1, 12000 E Colonial Blvd, Orlando
Date & time: Sunday April 30th, 4:30PM – 5:30PM
Details: Register here