christmas

Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus: A Common Origin?

The legend of Saint Nicholas dates back to the fourth century in Lycia, an area in present-day Turkey. Born in 270 in Patara to a wealthy, devout Christian family, Nicholas inherited a great fortune upon the death of his parents and chose to give it to the poor. Nicholas became the Bishop of Myra at a young age and is believed to have ...

The Beirut Marathon Association Organizes the Christmas Race in Jounieh

The Christmas Race, an iconic event in the Beirut Marathon Association's sports calendar, will take place on Sunday, December 15th, to support children with cancer. This race, set in the beautiful city of Jounieh, will start and finish at the Fouad Chehab Sports Complex. The goal is not only to promote physical activity throughout Lebanon, but ...

'Schedryk:' A Historical Return of a Ukrainian Christmas Carol in Kyiv

Last Sunday in Kyiv, the Kyiv Philharmonic resonated with the sounds of Schedryk, better known in the Anglo-Saxon world as the Carol of the Bells. This traditional Ukrainian song, first performed in the city in 1916, reveals a rich and little-known history. Composer Mykola Leontovytch transcribed this melody in the early 20th century, thereby ...

'Home for Christmas' Play Extended at Le Monnot Theater

The Bouffons present Home for Christmas, a family show in French featuring Cynthya Karam at Le Monnot theater. Written and directed by Bruno Tabbal, the play, initially performed on December 9, 10, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23 at 4:30 PM, has been extended with additional shows on December 21, 29 and 30. The audience is captivated by beautiful Christmas ...

Big City Lights and the Magic of New York

The Christmas season in New York City embodies a uniquely enchanting atmosphere, marked by dazzling lights and captivating decorations. This period is particularly significant in American culture, a fact evidenced by the exuberant manner in which residents decorate their homes. As New York City gets ready for New Year's Eve and wraps up the ...

Pope Calls for Ceasefire in Gaza in Christmas Message

Pope Francis on Monday deplored the desperate humanitarian situation of Palestinians in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire and the freeing of hostages in his Christmas message. "My heart grieves for the victims of the abominable attack on 7 October, and I reiterate my urgent appeal for the liberation of those still being held hostage," ...

Rai Calls for 'Internal Revolution' at Christmas Mass

Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rai blamed Lebanese officials for the woes plaguing Lebanon and its people, and called for a “spiritual revolution” that would lead to the election of a president of the republic and put Lebanon back on track. At his Christmas Day sermon in Bkerke on Monday, Rai said, “Let this Christmas bring about a ...

The Magic of Harmonies: Christmas in Music (2/2)

As Christmas approaches, musical scores come to life, filling the air with their festive spirit. In the second article of this series, This Is Beirut invites you to (re)discover three popular Christmas tunes that have soothed generations, perpetuating the magic of Christmas to this day. As soon as the wind sweeps away the last russet leaves, ...

Silent Streets, Somber Christmas in the Holy Land

The usually vibrant and festive atmosphere in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve, was overshadowed by the ongoing war in Gaza, subduing the holiday cheer. The streets, typically adorned with festive decorations, stood quiet on this special evening, with a noticeable absence of worshipers and tourists in the historic town, recognized as the birthplace of ...

Despite Christmas Eve, No Respite on the Southern Front

Despite Christmas Eve, the exchange of artillery fire between Hezbollah and Israel continued intermittently throughout Sunday. In the afternoon, the Israeli army bombed the Hobeish school in the village of Taybeh and raided the area between Taybeh and Rab al-Thalatheen, damaging a house. Bombs also fell on the outskirts of Tayr Harfa and the ...