Check out a growing list of presenters

A Taste of Seraj Palestine

Laurie Salameh, Seraj Executive Director

Join us as Laurie shares heartfelt greetings from Palestine, along with on-the-ground updates about the current situation amidst the ongoing violence. Learn about the latest developments in our library projects, cultural arts initiatives, and storytelling programs, and discover why our work is more crucial than ever during these challenging times.

Fidaa Ataya, Storyteller

Experience the captivating stories of Palestine as shared by Fidaa Ataya, Seraj's Master Storyteller and the Director of our Storytelling Academy. Fidaa brings to life the rich and resilient heritage of her people, using storytelling as a powerful tool for survival and cultural preservation. In these challenging times, her performances offer not only enchantment but also a profound connection to the history and enduring spirit of Palestine.

Palestinian Food

Palestinian cuisine is fresh and seasonal, featuring heirloom produce known as baladi, using simple cooking techniques that highlight their natural flavors. Meat, olives, beans, legumes, yogurt, and taboon bread are staples. Palestinian food reflects its diverse geography and climate, from the rice and kibbeh of the Galilee to the seafood and lentils of Gaza. Come experience the vibrant flavors of Palestinian food!

Dabkeh Dance Group

The Ramallah Club of Chicago keeps the culture alive through dabke, a traditional Levantine Arab folk dance. Composed of 40 dancers, ages 7-17, the troupe uses dabke to share their Palestinian identities and stories. They have performed around the U.S. and promise a unforgettable performance for you.

Hassan Salameh, Oud Player

Hassan is a singer, composer, and skilled musician, educated at the National Conservatory of Music in Jordan. At A Taste of Palestine, he will share his proficiency on the oud, a traditional Middle Eastern fretless stringed instrument, similar to a lute. You won’t want to miss hearing its beautiful, mesmerizing sound.

Jerusalem Shops

For anyone who likes to shop, A Taste of Palestine proudly offers an exquisite collection of ceramic pottery, handcrafted by Palestine artisans who have passed down their skills through generations. Their artwork captures the intricate patterns and rich colors that have adorned homes for centuries.

Nada Abulibdeh, Vocalist

Born in the UAE, Nada Abulibdeh is now a Chicago-based Palestinian vocalist who uses her love for music, specifically Palestinian folklore, to stay rooted in her culture. She has performed with The Middle East Music Ensemble at the University of Chicago, as well as The Chicago Immigrants Orchestra and A Taste of Palestine is fortunate to feature this amazing singer.

Mary Hazboun, Artist

Mary Hazboun is a multidisciplinary Chicago-based Palestinian artist who practices “The Art of Weeping” as an act of processing grief and highlighting the trauma of forced migrations, particularly the nuanced resistance of women against different forms of oppression. Mary was born and raised in the city of Bethlehem, moved to the U.S. in 2004, and holds a Master’s degree in Women’s and Gender Studies from DePaul University.

Knafeh (Arabic: كنافة)

Knafeh is a traditional dessert made with spun pastry called kataifi that is soaked in a sweet syrup known as atter and typically layered with cheese and ashta cream, and topped with crushed pistachios, served hot with a drizzle of simple syrup. Considered the quintessential Palestinian dessert, knafeh is cooked in large, round copper pans over an open fire. Come ready to enjoy this special treat, baked on site for you.