The “Farah El-Bahr” Festival is the Anna Lindh’s opportunity to celebrate and highlight the diversity of intercultural initiatives both in Egypt and the wider Mediterranean. Traditionally held in the iconic Alexandrian Citadel, for 2 days each year the city welcomes artists and performances from around Egypt and the Mediterranean. Through a varied programme of project presentations, educational workshops, video projections, traditional artistic performances and live music from the region, the festival allows the public to learn about the Foundation’s role, celebrate cultural diversity and raise awareness of opportunities for Mediterranean cooperation.

The festival is developed in partnership with international and local cultural organisations, NGOs, schools, businesses, voluntary groups, consulates and diplomatic missions based in Egypt who benefit from a promotional space and the opportunity to present projects, exchange good practices and develop further cooperation in the field of culture and intercultural dialogue.

Now in its third year, the festival’s content and programme continues to expand making it an important and much looked-forward-to event in Alexandria’s cultural calendar.

Farah El Bahr’s Logo

The chosen mascot for the festival is a direct reference to the Shay El Arousa, with the word “farah” (wedding) bringing to mind the word “arousa” (bride). With Shay El Arousa being the Egyptian tea, widely popular in all classes and walk of Egyptian life, it’s a perfectly identifiable reference. By giving our Arousa a pair of headphones, speakers, and turning her into a mermaid, she becomes the perfect mascot for Alexandria’s Farah El Bahr festival.