As the Christmas season approaches, This is Beirut offers a non-exhaustive overview of the cultural and festive events that light up the month of December. Concerts, exhibitions, performances and other celebrations invite everyone to share warm and memorable moments, showcasing creativity and cultural diversity at the heart of Lebanon.
Khyal Sahra returns to Casino du Liban for the holidays
After captivating over 26,000 spectators last August, the play Khyal Sahra, written, directed and performed by Georges Khabbaz, alongside Adel Karam, makes a grand return to Casino du Liban for a limited series of performances from December 18, 2024, to January 19, 2025.
This theatrical comedy, produced by Tarek Karam, masterfully blends humor, profound messages and reflections on existence, encapsulating the richness of Lebanese spirit in a moment of artistic revival. During the festive season, it promises audiences a joyful and moving interlude filled with laughter and emotions.
During its previous run, Khyal Sahra enjoyed immense success, with sold-out performances night after night and extensive media coverage. Audiences are already eager for this new series, as tickets via Virgin Ticketing have been selling out within days. A must-see event for lovers of theater and culture.
Mémoire Vagabonde: Yolande Labaki's exhibition at Cheriff Tabet Gallery
The Cheriff Tabet Gallery presents Mémoire Vagabonde by Yolande Labaki, on display from December 10 to 31. The renowned Lebanese artist, known for her vibrant landscapes and enigmatic silhouettes with stylized faces, invites visitors to immerse themselves in her unique world.
Labaki, who studied literature and art history at the Sorbonne, honed her painting skills under Florent Crommelynck and further enriched her craft at New York's School of Visual Arts. Dividing her time between Beirut and Brussels, she offers a poetic meditation on form and memory through this exhibition.
Venue: Cheriff Tabet Gallery, Abdel Wahab al-Inglizi Street. For info, call 71 854 000.
Les Souliers de Thérèse: a moving Christmas oratorio
On December 14, the Philokalia Choir presents Les Souliers de Thérèse, a poignant oratorio exploring a defining moment in the life of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. This musical work reflects on the “Christmas grace” experienced by Thérèse at the age of 13 in 1886.
Heartbroken by a dispute with her father over the Christmas tradition of shoes by the fireplace, Thérèse overcame her sorrow to open her gifts with joy. This episode, which she later described as “the night of her conversion,” marked her realization of selflessness and love for others. Filled with tenderness and light, this oratorio offers a spiritual journey resonating with the Christmas spirit.
Tickets available at Ticketing Box Office or the Choir's office.
Christmas Market: a festive and charitable first edition at District 7 Beirut
From December 13 to 15, 2024, District 7 Beirut - Saifi launches its inaugural Christmas Market, celebrating the holidays while supporting Tribu Express in its mission to provide food aid to underprivileged families.
For three magical days, visitors can enjoy artisan creations, local delicacies and Christmas gifts, alongside a rich program of free performances and activities. Highlights include interactive Arabic storytelling for children by May Shbaklo and a musical stand-up by G-Strings on December 13; a magic show by Entertainium and a Christmas cocktail workshop by The Balcony Coffee Shop & Bar on December 14; and French Christmas tales by Cyril Jabre & Joe Abi Aad, along with a mental well-being discussion, Confessions, hosted by Hon fi Hobb on December 15.
Daily creative workshops for kids, illuminations, music and festive decorations promise a warm and enchanting atmosphere. This unique event combines Christmas magic, solidarity and togetherness.
For info, call 81 233 144.
Le Noël des Associations: a beautiful tradition of solidarity in Ashrafieh
Launched in December 2019 amid the revolution, Le Noël des Associations (The Christmas of Associations) has since addressed immense needs in a time of crisis. In the absence of state support and with limited resources, Lebanese associations have found in this event an opportunity to unite, pool efforts and mobilize citizen generosity.
This cherished tradition continues, offering a space where commitment, mutual aid and celebration come together.
This year, Le Noël des Associations will take place on December 13 and 14, 2024, from 11 AM to 7 PM at the Club Les Créneaux - Ashrafieh. It will gather numerous associations working in diverse fields, including Achrafieh 2020, AEP, Al Younbouh, Assameh Birth & Beyond, Ladies of Hazmieh Charity Association, À Tout Cœur, Bassma, Be Beirut, Chaîne des Amis, Faire Face, Collège des Handicapés Beit Chabab, Irap, Kikito (for Children of Light), Kinamania (for Ahla Fawda), L'Écoute, Libami, Mounet Bet Freifer, Oum El Nour, RYA Beirut (for Assameh Birth & Beyond), Saint Vincent de Paul, Sesobel, Soulfabrik (for Be Beirut), Step Together, Tartine du Matin, Tidee_d (for Children of Light), Tri_Pulley, and Voix de la Femme.
Under the motto “The more we are, the happier they will be!”, this event invites everyone to support these associations, which work tirelessly to improve the lives of the most vulnerable. A not-to-be-missed opportunity to combine the Christmas spirit with solidarity!
Secret Heart: Affordable Books for a Good Cause
Calling all book lovers! Thousands of secondhand books, starting at just $1, await you at the Secret Heart Solidarity Book Fair, taking place on Saturday, December 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Horsh Tabet.
Novels, humanities, classics, arts, spirituality, suspense, comics, cooking, history, coffee table books... Available in French, English, or Arabic, this fair offers a wide selection to satisfy all tastes and ages, for both adults and children.
Spaces are limited, so reservations are required. Send your full name via WhatsApp to 03 22 68 18, and you’ll receive the exact address of the event.
Every book purchased contributes to a charitable cause. The funds raised will support Lebanese families in need through the Secret Heart association, which distributes food packages throughout the year.
This fair is a unique opportunity to uncover literary treasures while supporting an essential cause.
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