Islamic Arts Festival Announces Headlining Artists for 13th Annual Celebration in Houston

HOUSTON - EntSun -- The Islamic Arts Society announced the headlining performers for the 13th Annual Islamic Arts Festival, taking place November 21–22, 2026, at the Ismaili Center Houston, the landmark cultural complex located at Allen Parkway and Montrose Boulevard.

Recognized as a National Endowment grant recipient and celebrated as the largest Islamic arts festival in the United States, the two-day event will bring together artists, scholars, performers, and visitors from across the country for an immersive celebration of Islamic art, culture, and heritage.

The festival's featured musical program will showcase artists whose performances reflect the rich diversity of artistic expression across Muslim cultures. World-renowned Sufi Qawwali duo Fareed Ayaz and Abu Muhammad will headline the opening-night program on Friday, November 20, inaugurating the festival's festivities. On Saturday, November 21, Omar Offendum, the acclaimed Syrian-American rapper and poet, will take the stage, bringing together hip-hop, Arabic poetry, and contemporary cultural expression.

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In addition to its musical performances, the festival will feature an expansive exhibition and marketplace of Islamic art, with more than 5,000 works by over 50 artists available for visitors to explore, appreciate, and purchase. The collection will span contemporary and traditional artistic styles, offering a wide-ranging look at the creativity and craftsmanship that shape Islamic art.

Festivalgoers can also experience live demonstrations by master calligraphers and artisans, interactive workshops, and hands-on art sessions. Demonstrations in calligraphy, ebru (Turkish paper marbling), and painting will offer opportunities to discover traditional techniques and engage directly with artists. Dedicated children's art activities, cultural programming, and a selection of ethnic foods will provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

"The Islamic Arts Festival is an opportunity to experience the extraordinary breadth of artistic traditions and contemporary creativity found across Muslim cultures," said Shaheen Rahman, the President of the Islamic Arts Society. "By bringing together internationally recognized performers, talented visual artists, and interactive cultural experiences, we aim to create a welcoming space for discovery, connection, and appreciation through the arts."

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Set against the inspiring backdrop of the Ismaili Center Houston, the 2026 festival will continue the Islamic Arts Society's mission of promoting greater understanding and appreciation of Islamic art and culture through public engagement and artistic expression.

Event Details

• Event: 13th Annual Islamic Arts Festival
• Dates: November 21–22, 2026
• Location: The Ismaili Center, 2323 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019
• Featured performers: Fareed Ayaz and Abu Muhammad; Omar Offendum

For additional information about the festival, programming, and attendance, visit the Islamic Arts Society's official website or follow its social media channels.

About the Islamic Arts Society

The Islamic Arts Society promotes awareness, understanding, and appreciation of Islamic art and culture through exhibitions, educational initiatives, cultural programming, and community events. Its signature Islamic Arts Festival brings together artists and audiences to celebrate the enduring legacy and evolving expressions of Islamic artistic traditions.

About the Ismaili Center, Houston

The Ismaili Center, Houston, is the first in the United States and part of a group of

architecturally significant spaces created by the Ismaili Muslim community in various

parts of the world.

website:
www.IslamicArtsSociety.org