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.
Beirut Chants: A Celebration of Artistic and Cultural Resilience
The Beirut Chants festival, held from December 4 to 23, 2024, provides a space for unity and togetherness through free concerts highlighting culture and prayer. Among the highlights already past are Mozart’s Coronation Mass, the Nativity Hymns, and various performances by local and international talents, supported by embassies and foreign institutions.
The upcoming events promise to be just as inspiring. On December 12, the Chœur Philokalia will perform A Christmas with John Rutter at Saint Joseph Church in Monot. On December 15, Carla Chamoun will light up Christ the King Church in Zouk Mosbeh with her performance, Light of Hope. Violinist Francisco Fullana will give a recital on December 16 at Saint Maron Church in Gemmayzeh, in partnership with the Spanish Embassy.
The National Fayha Choir, conducted by Maestro Barkev Taslakian, will perform on December 20, while Théo Fouchenneret will offer a piano recital on December 22 at Saint Elie Kantari Church in collaboration with the European Union.
The festival will culminate on December 23 with a concert celebrating the 100th anniversary of Puccini, featuring tenor Bechara Moufarrej, the Notre Dame University Choir and Orchestra, conducted by Father Khalil Rahmé, at Saint Maron Church in Gemmayzeh.
These musical gatherings in Beirut's iconic churches reflect the enduring spirit of artistry and hope in Lebanon. The full program is available on the official Beirut Chants website: www.beirutchants.com.
‘Christmas at the Gallery:’ A Collective Exhibition to Discover
The Chaos Art Gallery presents “Christmas at the Gallery”, a collective exhibition featuring Lebanese and international artists. The opening reception will take place on Thursday, December 12, from 5 PM to 9 PM. Among the featured artists are May Ammoun, Chantal Awad, Hoda Baalbaki, Zeina Bacardi, Patil Balian, Barbara Daeffler, YoYo by Dalia Dakhlallah, Dipinto, Janet Hagopian, Hrair, Al Furati Jomaa, Yasser Khattar, Bassam Kyrillos, Charbel Lahoud, Hussein Madi, Obinna Makata, Yolande Naufal, Jacqueline Ohanian, Nicole Sarkis, Edouard Souhaid and Debora Sanchez Viqueira.
The exhibition will be open daily from 11 AM to 7:30 PM until January 11, 2025, offering a unique opportunity to explore diverse and captivating creations. Located in Tabaris, 14 Sursock Street, the gallery invites visitors to celebrate the magic of Christmas in the heart of Beirut. For more information, contact 81 761 761 or 03 761 769. The gallery’s location is available via this link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/12VybEbztRUk3egi7.
Bassma’s Christmas Carol for Hope!
Bassma is organizing A Christmas Carol for Hope!, an exceptional Christmas concert on December 26 at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church (Azarieh) in Sassine. The Solistes de Beyrouth, accompanied by a children’s choir, will perform a bouquet of Christmas carols to celebrate peace and support Bassma’s social projects.
This unifying event aims to foster serenity and generosity while bringing hope to the most vulnerable families in Lebanon. Reservations can be made at 03-068519 / 01-393077 or via Virgin Ticketing. Bassma hopes “this concert will bring the light of Christmas and inspire peace in our beautiful country.”
Centenary of Charles Aznavour: ‘Monsieur Aznavour’ in Special Preview
On the occasion of the centenary of Charles Aznavour, UGAB-Liban (Armenian General Benevolent Union in Lebanon) invites you to a special avant-première screening of the documentary Monsieur Aznavour by Mehdi Idir. This unique event will take place on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 8 PM at Grand Cinemas, ABC Dbayeh. As seats are limited, advance registration is advised via this link: https://forms.gle/FVcwKjHWudKxUX2M6. Don’t miss this tribute to one of the greatest artists of our time!
Chœur de l’USJ: A Jazz and Choral Christmas Concert
The USJ Choir, conducted by Yasmina Sabbah, presents a celebration of life and hope through a concert on December 18 and 19, 2024, at 8:30 PM at Saint Joseph Church, Monnot. Combining jazz and choral music, this event will feature Will Todd’s dynamic Mass in Blue, along with jazz standards and reimagined Christmas carols.
Accompanied by the Beirut Jazz Quartet and soloist Marie-Josée Matar, the artists promise an evening rich in engaging grooves, bluesy harmonies, and captivating improvisations. Admission is free upon reservation via ticketingboxoffice.com. A musical moment highlighting resilience and the festive spirit of Christmas.
‘Feliz Navidad:’ Christmas Concert at ALBA
Organized by the Spanish Embassy in Lebanon and the ALBA Alumni Association, the “Feliz Navidad” Christmas concert showcases La Chanterie de Beyrouth, conducted by Noha Hatem, with piano accompaniment by Isabelle. This event will take place on Friday, December 20, at 6:30 PM, at the Samir Abillama Amphitheater, ALBA Dekwaneh. Admission is free with open seating.
Le Marché aux Puces: The Vintage Rendezvous
For its 17th edition, Le Marché aux Puces will take place in the historic Abroyan factory workshops in Bourj Hammoud, also known as Union Marks. This event will host over 40 vendors from December 12 to 15, from 12 PM to 10 PM, offering a unique selection of vintage treasures.
Visitors can find authentic items perfect for gifts steeped in history and suited to all budgets. A must-visit event for vintage enthusiasts and collectors as the festive season approaches.
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