Bringing Lebanon’s Heart to the City: The Fair Market Opens in Ashrafieh
Beirut, Lebanon – September 23, 2025
The Fair Market officially opened on September 20, 2025, at Banque BEMO in Ashrafieh, as part of the Aradina project supported by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). The launch was held in the presence of the French Ambassador, H.E. Hervé Magro, along with Beirut officials, partners, and community representatives.
Created as a platform to bridge rural producers with urban communities, the Fair Market highlights Lebanese craftsmanship, traditional foods, and artisanal products. It also aims to promote fair trade and sustainable practices while giving producers from across the regions greater visibility and access to new audiences. The opening day welcomed families, friends, and food enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors had the chance to explore and purchase authentic Lebanese goods—many not typically found in the city—from regional delicacies to handmade crafts. The program included an official ceremony, recognition of outstanding producers, guided tours sharing the stories behind the products, and an interactive children’s workshop focused on bees and honey.
Beyond a marketplace, the event served as a cultural gathering space, encouraging dialogue between producers and visitors, and reinforcing pride in Lebanon’s rural heritage. It offered participants a deeper understanding of the origins of their food and crafts, while supporting small-scale producers working to preserve traditional skills and local flavors.
The Fair Market will continue every Saturday until October 25, giving the public ongoing opportunities to meet producers, discover unique products, and celebrate Lebanon’s rich cultural and culinary identity.
