The Palestinian Festival in Ottawa, first held in August 2014, presents Palestinian culture, food and music, and is held at Marion Dewar Park (adjacent to Ottawa City Hall). In 2023, the festival promises to be bigger and better. Some of the attractions you have to visit are:
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
2014 - 9,000+
2015 - 15,000+
2016 - 20,000+
2017 - 25,000+
2018 - 30,000+
2019 - 40,000+
2022 - 41,000+
NABLUS THEATRE
Nablus Theatre (pronounced Nab-less) is the main entertainment stage and will be located at the south side of the park. Palestinian music is echoed through the speakers daily. DJ Tonnee will indulge the audience with many modern, as well as traditional folkloric Palestinian music. Live entertainment includes live bands, singers, and the folkloric Palestinian group dance “Dabkeh”.
BETHLEHEM TENT
Make your way to Bethlehem tent (pronounced Beth-la-hem) and lounge in the traditional family room setting and check out some Palestinian art exhibits. A Henna tattoo artist will be available, decorating our guests with beautiful designs and patterns. Make sure you talk to our tourism kiosk to get some travel tips on Palestine!
RAMALLAH KITCHEN
Indulge in Palestinian cuisine with vendors offering delicious and traditional dishes to the public! The most popular Palestinian dishes will be chosen by Palestinian chefs. Dishes such as Fool (fava bean dish), hummus, falafel, lamb and rice, spiced chicken (Musakhan), special flat bread with feta cheese or Zaater (thyme) will also be baked on the spot! Palestinian style shawarma will also be available to garlic lovers.
THE OLD SOOQ OF JERUSALEM (BAZAAR)
The Sooq will be located at the south side of the park, adjacent to the City Hall building. The Bazaar will provide guests with a variety of products to purchase, ranging from herbs and spices to books and souvenirs. Take a stroll through the busy bazaar and you can find items such as: Palestinian literature, Carved olive wood sculptures, Palestinian souvenirs, Special modern handmade accessories, Palestinian spices and dry food, Jewelry and More
