Birzeit Old City Embraces an Authentic Palestinian Celebration 

As part of the youth-led “Journey Through Time” initiative, Birzeit’s Old City came alive with an authentic Palestinian celebration that brought together traditional henna rituals, dabke performances, and folk arts, reviving the beauty of Palestinian weddings and their rich legacy of heritage, identity, and collective memory passed down through generations.

With a large audience in attendance, the squares and alleyways of the Old City were transformed into a vibrant space filled with joy and life. A traditional Palestinian henna celebration was held for a couple preparing for their wedding two days later. Families and young people joined in the traditional songs, ululations, and dabke, creating a scene that reflected the strength and solidarity of Palestinian society and its deep pride in its heritage and identity.

The success of the event was made possible through broad community collaboration between Sharek Youth Forum, Al-Urjuwan for Traditional Attire, Birzeit Municipality, the Birzeit Cultural Council, Zaghrouda Troupe, and several other heritage and artistic groups. Their beautiful performances showcased the richness and diversity of Palestinian folk arts and filled the occasion with a unique and joyful spirit.

The initiative was implemented in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), highlighting the vital role of young people and local institutions in safeguarding, revitalizing, and passing Palestinian heritage on to future generations as a living part of the nation’s identity and collective memory.

From the heart of Birzeit’s Old City, the couple, the audience, and the participating institutions created a success story with a powerful message: when a community comes together around its heritage, memory comes alive, and Palestinian joy becomes an expression of resilience, hope, and belonging.