Lebanon National Day

Lebanon National Day

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  1. 1920Greater Lebanon proclaimed under French mandate
  2. 1943Independence leaders released and mandate rule ends
  3. 1989Taif Agreement helps end the civil war

The story behind the day

22 November marks Lebanon Independence Day, commemorating the end of the French mandate in 1943. The date is linked to the release of Lebanese leaders imprisoned by French authorities after they moved to remove mandate restrictions from the constitution.

The day became Lebanon's central national holiday because it represents sovereignty, constitutional politics and the delicate balance between religious communities. Later civil war, occupation, reconstruction and crisis have made independence both cherished and fragile.

Today Independence Day is marked with military ceremonies, flags, school events, speeches and cultural programming, especially in Beirut. Visitors see cedar flags, army presence, mountain and coastal imagery, and a public mood that often mixes pride with political frustration.

Across Lebanon, the holiday is social and food-rich. Families gather around mezze, grills, sweets and coffee, while music, neighbourhood life and diaspora connections give the national story warmth beyond formal ceremony.

  1. 202622 November 2026 · Sunday
  2. 202722 November 2027 · Monday
  3. 202822 November 2028 · Wednesday
The Lebanese flag
Lebanon flag

The Lebanese flag has red-white-red horizontal bands with a green cedar tree in the centre. Red is associated with sacrifice, white with peace and Lebanon's mountains, and the cedar with endurance, holiness and the ancient forests that have symbolised Lebanon for millennia.

Lebanese celebration food is generous and mezze-based, with herbs, olive oil, grilled meat, flatbread, sweets and coffee turning meals into long social gatherings.

What to eat

TabboulehParsley, bulgur, tomato and lemon salad with bright herbal flavour.
KibbehBulgur and minced meat shaped raw, baked or fried.
HummusChickpea and tahini dip served with olive oil and pita.
Mixed grillSkewers of lamb, chicken and kafta cooked over charcoal.
ManakishFlatbread topped with za'atar, cheese or minced meat.
BaklavaLayered pastry with nuts and syrup for festive sweets.

What to drink

ArakAnise spirit mixed with water and served with mezze.
Lebanese wineBekaa Valley wines are among the region's most respected.
Turkish coffeeSmall strong coffee served at visits and after meals.
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Lebanon culture

Lebanese culture is Mediterranean, Arab, Levantine and diasporic, shaped by music, food, mountain villages, Beirut publishing, religious diversity and a strong sense of style.

Beirut ceremonyThe capital hosts military and civic Independence Day events.
Cedar symbolThe cedar tree links flag, mountains and ancient identity.
Dabke danceLine dancing brings weddings, festivals and national events together.
Byblos heritageThe ancient port city connects Lebanon to deep Mediterranean history.