Hamra Street
is one of the main streets of the city of Beirut, and it is located in
the neighborhood of the same name, Hamra. Its technical name is Rue 31
and is considered as a main economic and diplomatic hub of Beirut.
Although it
has yet to revive fully its pre-war legacy, Hamra Street has undergone many
renovations and is still regarded by many as the heart of the city.
Prior to
1975, Hamra Street was referred to as Beirut’s "Champs Elysees” as it was
frequented by tourists all year round. It hosts a good number of hotels,
furnished apartments, and coffee shops that cater to visitors and students from
close by American University of Beirut and Lebanese American University. During
the last few years, it has been revitalized, with many new upscale bars, cafes,
restaurants, and shops opening, and is becoming a popular district for
shopping, nightlife, and cuisine once again.
We conducted
several festivals each year at Hamra Street. Hamra Streets Festival aim is to
exhibit the cultural and artistic diversity of Lebanon in general and Hamra
Street in particular. The festivals have encompassed a vast number of
activities and events that target all age groups. Participation in the
festivals is flexible, and it greatly encourages amateur such as musicians,
Artists and Free-Lancers in all fields of the Arts.