Ramadan Hours: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm; Thursday and Friday 12 - 5pm

Gather and Grow: Seed Swap

Thursday, March 5, 2026
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
The Annex

RSVP here.

(During Ramadan — Iftar provided)

Join us to cultivate connections and swap seeds. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting your hands in the soil for the first time, this community seed swap is a chance to share what you grow and grow what you share.

Many of the plants featured in Al-Hadiqa were donated by the local Arab American community from their homelands in the MENA/SWANA region.Some plants have traveled across generations and geographies, carrying stories of migration, resilience, and home. From herbs and vegetables rooted in tradition to varieties adapted to new soil, each seed holds a history waiting to be planted again.

No seeds to swap? No problem. You’ll find plenty of seeds, stories, and gardening tips to go around. Bring your curiosity, trade your favorites, discover new varieties, and connect with fellow growers who believe in nurturing both plants and community.

Please note: you do not need to bring seeds to take seeds.

How the Seed Swap Works

Community members are encouraged to bring seeds or cuttings to exchange, but all are welcome to participate.

Preferred guidelines:

  1. Organic seeds are encouraged (Al-Hadiqa is organic-only).
  2. Non-organic seeds are welcome but must be clearly labeled.
  3. Seeds from the MENA/SWANA region are especially encouraged, though all varieties are welcome.
  4. We are particularly looking to expand our flower varieties.

Packaging & Labeling

Seeds may be brought in paper envelopes, glass jars,, cups, or other containers. Please label with:

  1. Plant name
  2. Year collected
  3. Organic or non-organic
  4. Optional details (origin, variety, growing tips)

AANM will provide paper bags, envelopes, and notecards during the event.

Iftar & Refreshments

Dinner will be served buffet-style by La Pita throughout the event in observance of Ramadan.

Hands-On Activities

  1. Vegetable stamp printmaking
  2. Seed-starting station with gardening experts (Garden Juju Collective)Dry flower collage

Community Partners

We’re proud to host this year’s seed swap in community with:

Metro Swaps

Garden Juju Collective

Garden Club of Dearborn

Dearborn Public Library

This is more than a swap – it’s an opportunity to cultivate connection, share heritage, and grow

 

  • March 5, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
  • 5:00 pm
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The Annex

The Annex @ AANM, a symbol of the Museum’s growing engagement with the community, opened in 2015. This space can accommodate large community groups, gatherings, events, performances and art displays.

Learn more