Beirut, August 2025
Does diplomacy still serve any purpose? How can we continue to create when everything is being destroyed? Can change be measured? Is artificial intelligence our new religion? Can freedom simply be declared?
For the first time in its history, L’Orient-Le Jour is launching an open-air festival: “Un vent de liberté”. Three days of debates and celebration — open to all and free of charge (except for the concert) — will take place on September 12, 13, and 14 at the Beirut Hippodrome, inviting reflection on a world in upheaval.
“Organizing a festival is a huge challenge. For many long months, we nurtured this project, envisioning it in a mythical place, steeped in history and embodying this centennial Lebanon. The Beirut Hippodrome, with its vintage charm, naturally stood out as the obvious choice — a space worthy of our ambition. The conflicts and instability of the region, a persistent shadow over the past hundred years with their outbursts of violence, only reinforced our conviction in the need to continue our struggle,” explains Nayla de Freige, CEO of L’Orient-Le Jour.
The festival « Un vent de liberté » is the perfect occasion to share special moments with family and friends, in an environment conducive to constructive discussions around politics, art, artificial intelligence, and more.
Over three days, this event, at the heart of Beirut, will highlight the values that have guided L’Orient-Le Jour since its creation: independence, free spirit, and creativity. A variety of activities will be offered, including:
- Two Grand Debates: the first with François Hollande, former President of France, and the second with Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of Lebanon;
- Roundtables on political activism and the price of free speech in the Middle East, censorship of artists, and artificial intelligence;
- A debate contest with students from Saint Joseph University (USJ), presented by Lebanese actor John Achkar;
- An exhibition of 100 historic front pages of L’Orient-Le Jour.
“We have gathered experienced voices — men and women, young and old, from diverse horizons, each bringing their story and vision: politicians, journalists, artists, activists, researchers, and our readers,” adds Nayla de Freige.
The festival will also feature relaxation and refreshment areas:
- A children’s section with numerous activities;
- A dining area.
Access to all debates, exhibitions, and festival activities is free and open to the public.
Another highlight of the festival is the exceptional concert by Ibrahim Maalouf & the Trumpets of Michel-Ange, not to be missed on September 13 at 8:30 p.m. “This is a unique concert, a festive moment that will resonate like a promise. As an influential media outlet, we aspire, alongside our readers and audience, to be the architects of a rebuilt Lebanon driven by hope and optimism, in search of sustainable solutions,” says Nayla de Freige.
“Ibrahim Maalouf & the Trumpets of Michel-Ange” will perform for the first time in Lebanon. With his innovative compositions and distinctive trumpet playing, Maalouf promises to captivate the Lebanese audience with enchanting melodies and an electrifying performance. It will be a unique opportunity to experience live the album The Trumpets of Michel-Ange, a musical journey harmoniously blending Eastern and Western influences.
An unforgettable evening at the crossroads of genres and emotions! Ibrahim Maalouf’s concert is ticketed. Tickets are available at Ticketing Box Office.
About L’Orient-Le Jour
L’Orient-Le Jour is real-time news from the Middle East, straight from Beirut. Continuous coverage in French—and recently in English through our sister publication L’Orient Today. OLJ also offers exclusive reports, geopolitical analysis, historical insights, explanatory videos, and unique investigations. All available online at lorientlejour.com or on the mobile app.
About Ibrahim Maalouf
Ibrahim Maalouf is a French-Lebanese trumpeter, composer, and arranger born in 1980 in Beirut. Renowned for his exceptional trumpet skills and innovative musical creations, Maalouf brilliantly fuses Eastern and Western influences. A multiple award winner, he is known for albums such as “Diagnostic” and “Red & Black Light.” His music, often imbued with poetry and virtuosity, makes him a prominent figure on the contemporary music scene.