Surprising Poll on ArmeniaFest

 One of the highlights of the cultural calendar of Dallas is the annual ArmeniaFest. It is a celebration of colors, food, dance, music, spirituality, and rich history of one of the oldest nations of the world. The Armenian Desk of The Dallas Telegraph newspaper has covered the event for several consecutive years now. 

The Event is covered a lot in Armenian section of The Dallas Telegraph printed newspaper and in its Facebook publication Armenian Dallas.

Mary Mukhtarian, the historian of the community, is commenting on the poll.

Did YOU vote? Do it now!

— The Dallas Telegraph conducted a poll in our Facebook group Concerts, Shows, Events in Dallas — “What did you like best about ArmeniaFest 2015?” The people voted: №1 reason to come to the Festival is a traditional folk dance. Other selections voted for are: a photo booth with Armenian costumes, food, and then making new and meeting old friends, etc. Mery, what do you think about people’s opinion?

— First of all, I am very pleased that The Dallas Telegraph had conducted this poll because this is perhaps the first time in which the community outside the Armenian community had been asked about the ArmeniaFest. Most often we consider that people come because the Armenian food is outstanding. It is usually made by the women of the Armenian community, therefore it is as good as them making it for their own families. Let’s not forget that the folk dances are exceptionally colorful, full of energy and creativity, and they include almost every single child in the community. The talent of the dancers is only exceeded by the dedication of the parents and helpers who train the children, create the outfits, and attend countless hours of practice month after month. The result is an exceptionally beautiful display of Armenian folk dances that are now recognized as a cornerstone of the ArmeniaFest.

In 2015 we had the photo booth, and, as I said, we were amazed at how many people came to have their pictures taken. We had never thought that it might have been an attractive opportunity for our guests. And, finally, the food — our food is fantastic! Anybody who had missed any part of the ArmeniaFest last year, should come over this year and enjoy every single part of it. My personal reason for attending the Festival is to see all the people that I don’t get a chance to see during the rest of the year, eat some of the best food around, and extol the virtues of our rich Armenian heritage.

The people who come usually come with such a desire for good food, with so much passion, and so much interest in the Armenian culture, in the Armenian food, and in the Armenian history that I am absolutely pleased to be among those people who enjoy everything Armenian. I think I qualify as a member of that fan club. Also, I have not missed a single dance, even while working in the raffle booth. All the dancers work very hard, and the community encourages all children to be part of the dance groups, and we are delighted with their talent.

Please come to 2016 Armenian Cultural and Food Festival and express your opinion too!