January: The Campaign to Reopen Horsh Beirut
In 2012, activists turned their attention to one of Beirut's treasures, Horsh Beirut, a giant park which has been closed off to the public for some 20 years. Their goal: to get the municipality to reopen the space for everyone to enjoy.
February: Domestic Violence Against Women
Women's rights have long been a touchy subject in the Arab world. Protesting against domestic violence in February, this rally helped pass the law against abuse of women in Lebanon. The law was successfully drafted in August.
March: Migrant Worker's Parade
We admire the women that come here from their home countries to work, so this event was definitely in the top 12. In an effort to stop sponsorship of migrant workers, this event was a glorious medley of ethnic food, music and dance that brought together activists from all across Lebanon.
April: Ride to Remember - A Bike Rally in Commemoration of the 97th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide
In April, Hagizian University hosted a bike rally to commemorate the Armenian genocide. A mass of people, looking to raise awareness for the horrific event, rode through the streets of Beirut. It never fails to astound us how people can come together, despite their differences, for the sake of others.
May: Lebanese Laique Clowns
In probably the most genuinely motivated event of the year, this awesome group of people, who call themselves the "Arthiests", were determined to bring laughter to the streets of Beirut. Taking their "clown walks" around Sanayeh Garden, there was no shortage of smiles that night.
June: Beirut Spring Festival
The air was warm, the sun shining, and the people dancing. Last June had all of Beirut swaying to the groove of this year's Beirut Spring Festival. Filled with all sorts of culture, food, and rockin' live performances, this was definitely an awesome way to kick off the summer.
July: Free Hugs Campaign
Despite the awkward sweaty bodies in the midst of the July heat, this event managed to be quite charming. In such a heartfelt attempt to encourage open-mindedness, the Free Hugs Campaign definitely won a spot in our top 12. In September, a group of teens decided to recreate the event in Saida, but were unfortunately not met with the same enthusiasm. Al-Jamaa al-Islamia responded, “Peace and love cannot be spread by such a disgusting act (of free hugging)” and attempted to issue a Fatwa declaring public hugging an immoral act. Come on people, where’s the love?
August: Decks on the Beach
Anyone who was anyone hit up Decks on the Beach at least once this summer. In a series of insane parties in Sporting Club, the spirited vibe, massive crowd, and rockin’ DJs had everyone dancing like they just discovered disco.
September: Red Hot Chili Peppers
If you missed out on this one, we’re sorry. Hands down one of the liveliest nights of the year, the Red Hot Chili Peppers blew up the stage at the Beirut New Waterfront last September. In a red hot night of rock (see what I did there?), this concert earns its spot in our top 12. (Photo via Dailystar.com)
October: Share Beirut Conference
This year with a "Freedom of Speech" theme, Share Beirut was not to be missed. With a plethora of inspirational speakers, cool new gadgets, and a ton of free handouts (I'm talking free bracelets here, people), we're glad we didn't miss out on this one.
November: Beirut Marathon 2012
This year's Beirut Marathon was one to remember. The runners, bless them, had to endure blistering winds and the weather-apocalypse of the century (AKA a hailstorm strong enough to dent cars). Still, they managed to cross the finish line with grins plastered on their wet faces. Running shoes? $50. Pneumonia medical bill? $250. Awesome experience and winner's satisfaction? Priceless.
December: Swan Lake
In a classic everyone knows and loves, the Russian State Ballet starred in Swan Lake earlier this December. It was hosted in Al-Boustani hotel on a gorgeous night, giving the whole event a surreal vibe. The insanely graceful dancers, heart-wrenching Tchaikovsky ballads, and simply stunning atmosphere make this event our favorite of the year.
2012 has been a busy year and we’ve been up to our ears in parties, festivals, rallies and more. Looking back, this year had Beirut jam packed with enough events that made us want to drop whatever we were doing doing, strap on our most comfortable shoes and party the year away. With an entirely nostalgic motive, we wanted to compile the top 12 Beirut-based bashes of 2012, all of which made our toes curl in glee and the girly-girls inside us squeal with excitement.
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