Did You Know? This Town in Lebanon Hosts Annual Donkey Races

Who else knew about this tradition? Roum, a village in Jezzine known for its green mountains and clean air, hosts a donkey race every summer that brings the community together.

For decades, donkeys have been important to the villagers for farming and transporting goods. Over time, this practical role turned into a yearly event that attracts people from around Lebanon for a friendly competition.

Roum’s Annual Donkey Races

After a break due to the country’s situation, the donkey race is happening again this year. It started in 1963 to honor the donkey’s role in the village’s daily work, like carrying loads and helping in the fields.

Johnny Salim Haddad, head of Roum’s municipality, told Annahar: “The donkey race is an important local event. Bringing back the Karmeh festivals, including this race, is a priority for us. It’s a one-of-a-kind event in the region and Lebanon.”

Which Donkey Won This Year?

On race day, locals from Roum, Jezzine, Saida, Nabatieh, and Beirut gathered in the village square. Dressed up donkeys, accompanied by 12 horsemen, raced back and forth over a 220-meter course as music played and the crowd cheered.

And their names were actually hilarious. Neswanje, Shayef Halo, Meen Addak, Mkarkab, Jahlen, Abu Mokhta, Farkoo3 Afandi, and Ghannoujet Bayya.

In the final round, Ali Salameh won riding his donkey, Mkarkab. He received a $100 prize and a trophy, while Mkarkab got a medal. The donkey that finished last got a bag of barley.

Let us know if you have cool traditions like this in your village!

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