Levantine Folklore in America: Preserving Dabke, Music, and Poetry Across Generations
How Arab Immigrants from the Levant Celebrate Their Cultural Heritage in the United States.
The rich folkloric traditions of the Levant — encompassing countries like Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Jordan — have traveled across the ocean with immigrants and refugees who now call the United States home. From the thunderous rhythm of the Dabke to the soulful echoes of traditional Oud music and the beauty of oral poetry, Arab Americans from the Levant continue to celebrate their roots in vibrant and evolving ways.
The Dabke: More Than a Dance
Dabke, a traditional group dance characterized by rhythmic stomping and synchronized movements, is central to Levantine celebrations. Whether performed at weddings, cultural festivals, or Arab-American heritage events, Dabke has become a symbol of resilience and unity. In cities like Detroit, Chicago, and Los Angeles, Dabke troupes made up of young Arab Americans perform regularly, often blending traditional steps with modern influences.
Music: Keeping the Oud and Qanun Alive
Levantine music is rich with history and emotion. Instruments like the Oud, Qanun, and Nay are still taught and played in Arab-American music schools and community centers. Musical legends like Fairuz and Marcel Khalife are celebrated among second-generation Arab Americans, and many new artists are creating fusions of Arabic and Western sounds, attracting wider audiences while staying true to their heritage.
Poetry and Spoken Word
Oral storytelling and poetry are sacred components of Levantine folklore. From Zajal and Muwashahat to contemporary spoken word, Arab Americans are reviving these forms in creative ways. Cultural events in universities, cafes, and community centers often include readings in both Arabic and English, allowing younger generations to connect with their heritage while expressing modern themes of identity, migration, and belonging.
Community and Cultural Transmission
Nonprofit organizations, student groups, and Arab cultural centers across the U.S. play a vital role in preserving Levantine folklore. Events like Arab-American Heritage Month and Middle Eastern cultural festivals provide platforms to showcase traditional dance, food, crafts, and storytelling. Social media also plays a growing role, where creators share folklore in digestible and engaging formats to younger audiences.
Levantine folklore in America is alive and evolving. Through dance, music, and poetry, Arab Americans not only preserve their cultural identity but also enrich the broader tapestry of multicultural life in the United States. As these traditions adapt to new generations, they remain a proud expression of heritage, resilience, and joy.
