The 2026 Aley International Festivals kicked off on the evening of Thursday, August 6, 2026, amid a festive atmosphere that brought together art, entertainment, and tourism.
The opening ceremony was attended by officials, local dignitaries, community leaders, and the general public, marking the start of four days of summer concerts and activities in the city.
The opening ceremony was held at the Sembozium 2000 venue in the Ras al-Jabal area of Aley.
The program featured a variety of segments, including speeches, artistic performances, and dance shows. To conclude the evening, the Jordanian band Harqa Kart performed a concert that had the audience dancing along.
Wajdi Murad: Projects to Support Tourism in Aley
First, Aley Mayor Wajdi Murad delivered a speech in which he highlighted the most significant projects the municipality is currently working on.
He explained that these projects aim to enhance Aley’s presence in the areas of tourism, culture, and society.
Among these projects, Murad highlighted the “Balconies of Love” project, also known as “Balconies and Balakine of Aley.”
The municipality launched the project on July 10, 2026.
The project aims to provide a public space that takes advantage of Aley’s view toward Beirut and the surrounding natural landscape.
In addition, throughout the summer, this space hosts weekly art and cultural exhibitions and activities.
Through this initiative, the municipality seeks to attract more visitors and support tourism in the city.
Separately, Murad announced plans to establish a shelter for stray dogs in Aley.
This step is part of the municipality’s projects aimed at addressing a number of everyday issues in the city.
Marwan Kousa: A Positive Image of Lebanon
The opening ceremony also featured a speech by Marwan Kousa, president of “H.M.B.R. for Industry and Trade” (Fantasia), who
spoke about the social and economic role the company plays, particularly toward its employees’ families.
He noted that the company provides a source of income for approximately 800 families.
He also explained that, over the course of its history, the company has succeeded in becoming a well-known name in a number of global markets.
In the same vein, Kousa emphasized the importance of industries related to joy, entertainment, and celebrations.
He explained that this sector can help project a positive image of Lebanon and reflect the country’s capacity for production and creativity despite the challenges.
The opening ceremony also featured a speech by a representative of the Ministry of Tourism, who
in turn emphasized the importance of local events and festivals in supporting the tourist season and revitalizing activity in Lebanese regions.
Artistic Performances and Lebanese Dabke
The evening also featured a series of performances that added a diverse atmosphere to the festival’s opening.
The Rana Saab Women’s Choir performed a musical number that was well-received by the audience.
Afterward, the Juthur troupe performed a Lebanese dabke dance.
Thus, the opening ceremony brought together Lebanese music and heritage before moving on to the main concert on the first night.
Harget kart Closes the First Night
As the evening drew to a close, the audience at the Aley Festivals was treated to a performance by the Jordanian band Harakat Kart.
The band concluded the opening ceremony with a lively musical performance that drew enthusiastic responses from the audience.
Harakat Kart. showcased its signature style, which involves reinterpreting famous Arabic songs and melodies in a modern way.
The band also used different musical arrangements that gave the songs a fresh feel.
As a result, the evening became a space for singing and interaction between the band members and the audience.
Haraget Kart’s performance in Aley adds a new Lebanese stop to the band’s tour of the Arab region.
Their work is also popular among young people and music lovers who appreciate a blend of well-known songs and a contemporary style.
The Aley Festivals continue through August 9
In conclusion, the 2026 Aley International Festivals will continue through Sunday, August 9, as part of a program featuring a number of concerts and artistic evenings.
Among the artists participating in the festival are Joseph Attieh and George Nehme.
In addition, the festival grounds feature a dedicated area for games and entertainment.
There are also areas for dining and shopping, making the festival a great destination for families and visitors of all ages.
In conclusion, the reopening of the Aley Festivals has reaffirmed the city’s presence on Lebanon’s summer festival map.
Aley also capitalizes on its tourist appeal, scenic views, and new projects to attract visitors during the summer season.
As for the band Harqa Kart, they provided an electrifying musical finale to the first night of the 2026 Aley International Festivals.
