The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts will kick off next Tuesday with its 39th edition, running until August 2, 2025. Expectations are high for this edition to be more distinguished and better attended than previous years.

Prime Minister Jafar Hassan emphasized the festival’s importance, affirming that it is one of the most prominent Arab festivals and must be held in a manner befitting its rich history and esteemed status.

He pointed out that the festival plays a vital role in supporting the economy of Jerash Governorate and Jordan’s tourism sector, especially given the surrounding regional circumstances, considering artistic events a necessity for enhancing tourism.

Pride in Jordanian Identity

Hassan noted that Jordan recently celebrated several national occasions such as Flag Day, Independence Day, and the national team’s qualification for the World Cup. He stressed the continuation of celebrating the country’s and people’s achievements, expressing pride in Jordanian identity and Arab heritage.

Meanwhile, the festival’s Executive Director, Ayman Samawi, stated in a televised interview on the program “Helwa Ya Dunia,” which airs every Friday morning on Roya TV, that this edition of the festival will be exceptional in terms of comprehensive media coverage and events spanning eight Jordanian governorates in addition to Jerash, Amman, and Aqaba, reflecting the festival’s expansion and enhanced cultural standing.

He highlighted cooperation with national institutions such as the Jordanian Writers Association, the Jordanian Artists Association, the Writers’ Union, and the Philosophical Society to provide cultural and artistic content that meets audience aspirations.

A Global Cultural Platform

The festival will feature approximately 150 Jordanian artists, 534 musicians, and 350 theatrical performers, alongside participants from 34 countries, reinforcing the festival’s position as a global cultural and artistic platform.

The festival also shines a spotlight on Jordanian handicrafts and the art of women’s empowerment, with participation from teams representing about 10 Jordanian universities, underscoring the vital role of youth in enriching the cultural scene.

The festival’s events will be enlivened by a number of Arab stars such as Nassif Zeytoun, Mohamed Hamaki, Assala Nasri, Ahlam, Melhem Zein, Joseph Attieh, and Nour Mhanna, alongside prominent Jordanian stars including Nidaa Sharara, Diana Karazon, and Issa Al-Saqar. Samawi affirmed that the festival seeks continuous renewal and breaking away from traditional frameworks to present a comprehensive artistic experience reflecting Jordan’s cultural pride and the unity of its people.