Make Music Wheaton 2025: Salaam Performances — A Celebration of Middle Eastern Spirit
Join us for an unforgettable evening at Make Music Wheaton: Middle East, where the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern culture comes alive through music, art, and cuisine. This free, family-friendly street festival invites the community to celebrate the spirit of the Middle East—infused with heart, heat, and hope for peace.
🎶 Live Performances
Ronnie Malley
Experience the soulful melodies of Ronnie Malley, a Palestinian-American multi-instrumentalist renowned for his mastery of the oud, guitar, keyboards, and percussion. His music has been featured on Disney (The Jungle Book) and Netflix (Mo) among numerous other renown stages including Broadway, the Grammy’s and the Tony’s. Raised on Chicago’s southwest side, Malley has performed globally, blending Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian musical traditions. His theatrical work, including the acclaimed play Ziryab, The Songbird of Andalusia, showcases his commitment to cultural storytelling through music. Ronnie is a PhD Candidate at University of Chicago in ethnomusicology.
The Turath Ensemble
Experience the rich musical heritage of the Arab world with The Turath Ensemble, a collective of virtuosic musicians led by multi-instrumentalist Ronnie Malley, Nedal Hamdan and Wanees Zarour. “Turath” means “heritage” in Arabic, and this ensemble lives up to its name by performing traditional and classical Arabic music with passion and precision. From evocative maqams to folk rhythms, their performance transports audiences through centuries of cultural expression—celebrating the deep roots and continuing evolution of Middle Eastern music.
“Songs for Liberation” by Jewish Voice for Peace
As part of the evening’s cultural offerings, members of Jewish Voice for Peace will present “Songs for Liberation”—a stirring collection of musical pieces rooted in Jewish folk traditions and global struggles for justice. These songs weave together themes of solidarity, resilience, and shared humanity, offering a musical reflection on the longing for freedom and dignity for all people. The performance invites the audience to join in a spirit of hope and connection, lifting up a vision of collective liberation that crosses boundaries of faith, ethnicity, and nation.
Chicago Zaffa & DJ Samer
Feel the rhythm with Chicago Zaffa & DJ Samer, a dynamic ensemble bringing the traditional Zaffa wedding procession to the streets of Wheaton. Their performances feature vibrant drumming, electrifying Dabke dance, and immersive effects, creating an atmosphere of joyous celebration.
Elise Azkoul
Delight in the captivating voice of Elise Azkoul, a Wheaton-based singer-songwriter with Lebanese and Palestinian roots. A former contestant on NBC’s The Voice, Azkoul blends R&B and soul influences, delivering heartfelt performances that resonate with audiences. Her original songs, such as “Sweet Soul” and “La Vie En Rose,” showcase her rich vocals and emotional depth.
Dave Martin & Jeremy Botts
Longtime advocate for peace and justice, Dave Martin brings a legacy of folk music shaped by decades of activism—including performances alongside the legendary Pete Seeger. Partnering with Jeremy Botts, a visual artist whose soulful vocals and vintage Scandalli accordion add depth and character, the duo offers a musical journey rooted in spiritual, folk, and protest traditions. Their songs are contemplative yet hopeful—woven with harmonies that invite reflection, connection, and a shared longing for a more just world.
🎨 Live Art Installation
Jeffrey Swider-Peltz
Witness the creative process of Jeffrey Swider-Peltz, a former U.S. National Speedskater turned visual artist. His artwork, inspired by movement and athleticism, features dynamic murals and installations that capture the energy of sports arenas. Swider-Peltz’s pieces have been showcased in Chicago’s Logan Square and internationally, including Bethlehem, West Bank, reflecting his unique fusion of art and motion.
🍽️ Culinary Delights
Al Bawadi Grill
One of Chicagoland’s most respected Palestinian restaurants, Al Bawadi Grill will be serving up sizzling, flavor-packed shawarma—both chicken and beef—alongside other signature dishes that bring the vibrant flavors of the Levant to life. Their cuisine is rooted in tradition and hospitality, offering a perfect street food experience for festivalgoers looking to indulge in bold spices, warm pita, and fresh toppings.
Qahwah House
Transport yourself to the Arabian Peninsula with the rich aromas and flavors of Qahwah House, a Yemeni-owned café specializing in organic, single-origin Arabic coffee. At the festival, they’ll be serving a curated menu of hot and iced drinks, including Adeni Chai, spiced coffee blends, and refreshing iced options. Don’t miss their selection of traditional Middle Eastern sweets—Harrisa, Baklava, and other handmade treats—offering a perfect pairing with your drink and a sweet end to your meal.
Shandiz Kababi
Rounding out the culinary experience is Shandiz Kababi, offering the rich and aromatic flavors of Persian cuisine. Known for their perfectly grilled koobideh, chicken, and lamb kabobs, Shandiz pairs each dish with saffron-infused basmati rice, charred tomatoes, and freshly made sauces. Their menu reflects the warmth and generosity of Persian hospitality—where every skewer is prepared with care and tradition. Whether you’re craving a hearty platter or a flavorful gyro wrap, Shandiz Kababi delivers bold, comforting tastes straight from the grill.
👶🏼Family & Kids Activities
This year’s festival includes special fun for kids and families! Enjoy:
Face/Henna painting
Craft tables with Middle Eastern art-inspired projects
Interactive drum circles for kids to join the rhythm
🎥 Outdoor Movie: Aladdin
At 7:00 PM, gather for a large-screen outdoor showing of Disney’s Aladdin—a beloved story set in a Middle Eastern-inspired world. Free popcorn will be available, and kids are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite character!
Bring Your Own Lawn Chairs!
While the street will be closed for the event, lawn seating is first-come, first-served, so don’t forget to bring your own chairs or picnic blankets to get comfortable for the performances and movie screening.
Make Music Wheaton 2025 is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of cultural heritage, artistic expression, and community unity. Come together to honor the traditions of the Middle East and share in a night of music, dance, art, and cuisine.
Admission: Free and open to all ages.
Note: Please check the event’s official website or social media pages for other locations of Make Music Wheaton: 2025. Specific schedule of events forthcoming.