Lebanon's annual Christmas fair revives festive spirit after war

Elsa Meguerditchian was busy showcasing her bracelets to shoppers during a Christmas fair at the Forum De Beyrouth exhibition hall in Lebanon's capital Beirut.

"I did not expect such great demand for my products at this year's fair, especially after a long and bloody war," Elsa told Xinhua, attributing the revival of Christmas vibes to citizens' eagerness for a respite from long-suffering during the year.

Elsa registered to participate in the fair when the war was still ongoing between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, believing it would end and that people would get to celebrate Christmas this year.

She saw herself proven right soon as a ceasefire agreement took effect on Nov. 27, ending nearly 14 months of fighting between the two sides.

Every day, thousands of people flock to the Christmas fair to shop for festive decorations, food, and other Christmas items. At the fair, or the 12th session of the annual "Christmas in Action," bands are staging live performances for visitors, and children are seen running around and playing in the hall.

Joelle Feghali, the fair's organizer, told Xinhua that she changed her plan and moved the fair to Beirut upon learning of the ceasefire. She was then surprised at how many calls she had received for reserving booths.

"I think many people have been confined to their houses for almost a year as the war escalated, only spending on necessities, thus they want to go out, buy gifts, and celebrate Christmas," Joelle said.

Rabih Nasrallah, owner of a dessert shop, told Xinhua that small and medium businesses like his are keen to participate in such events to promote and sell their products after the war.

Annie Melkonian, another participant in the fair, conveyed to Xinhua her happiness in participating in the event which offers visitors great vibes.

"I only had a few days to prepare for this event, but it is going well, and people have a good appetite for what we showcase at this fair," she said.

Ahlam Nehme, owner of a homemade food shop, believed such markets are essential to activating different sectors and revitalizing the country's economy after a long period of stagnation.

This year's "Christmas in Action" event runs from Dec 13 to Dec 23. The fair is the largest and most creative Christmas market in Lebanon, where visitors can taste delicacies, enjoy live musical performances, participate in arts activities, and fully immerse themselves in an enchanting atmosphere of Christmas joy.