Halifax – November 24, 2025

The Lebanese community of Nova Scotia gathered yesterday at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 for one of the largest and most vibrant Independence Day celebrations the city has ever witnessed. Organized by the Consulate of Lebanon in Halifax, the event ble

nded solemn national ceremony with the warmth, music, and spirit that define Lebanese identity across the diaspora.

A Ceremony Rooted in Respect and Symbolism

The official program began outdoors, where the Canadian national anthem, performed by Caroline Jarmash, opened the ceremony. Immediately afterwards, Honorary Consul Wadih Fares performed the raising of the Lebanese flag, lifted to the traditional military march used in Lebanon. As the cedar flag ascended, Father George Esber led the crowd in a heartfelt Lebanese national anthem, sung with visible emotion by many attendees.

A Historic Crowd and a Hall Filled to Capacity

Once indoors, guests entered a hall filled far beyond typical attendance numbers. The crowd included Lebanese-Canadians who have been in Halifax for generations as well as large numbers of newcomers who just arrived. The energy reflected a community expanding in size, confidence, and cohesion.

The ceremony also welcomed key members of the Eastern Christian clergy, whose presence added spiritual depth to the national celebration. Their participation underscored the unity of Lebanon’s diverse religious traditions and their central role in supporting the growing Lebanese community across Nova Scotia.

Among the dignitaries seated in the first rows were the Lieutenant-Governor His Honor Mike Savage, Federal Minister Hon. Lena Metlege Diab, Hon. Tim Halman representing the Premier of Nova Scotia, Halifax’s mayor Andy Fillmore, MLAs and Councilors,  diplomats, university presidents, representatives from the Halifax International Airport Authority and Pier 21, along representatives from the various Lebanese organizations and political parties.

Their presence underscored the deep integration of the Lebanese community into the civic, academic, and economic life of Nova Scotia.

Speeches that Highlighted Pride, Belonging, and Contribution

The official program began with remarks from Lieutenant Governor His Honour Mike Savage, who highlighted the cultural and economic contributions of Lebanese Canadians. He was followed by Federal Minister Hon. Lena Metlege Diab, who delivered a personal reflection on integration, identity, and the pride of serving Canada while honouring her Lebanese roots.

Next, Hon. Tim Halman, speaking on behalf of Premier Houston, emphasized the community’s role in shaping a modern, multicultural Nova Scotia. His Worship Andy Fillmore followed with a message celebrating the Lebanese influence on Halifax’s growth, particularly in entrepreneurship, construction, and community life.

Honorary Consul Wadih Fares concluded the speeches with reflections on unity, resilience, and the meaning of belonging, declaring that Lebanon is not only a place on a map, but a living presence carried in the heart. His words echoed themes from the consulate’s recent call to the community, “Cedars Unbent, Your Roots Are Calling.”

Folklore, Music, and the Lebanese Atmosphere

Between the speeches, Lebanese folkloric dances, performed by Diman Association in Canada (DAC), energized the hall, drawing applause from an audience eager to reconnect with cultural roots. Waitstaff circulated through the crowd with hors d’oeuvres and wine, creating the elegant yet lively atmosphere characteristic of Lebanese celebrations.

The event also showcased significant behind-the-scenes coordination. The consulate team, led by the Consul’s executive secretary Aida Hachem, worked tirelessly with Pier 21 management and Mint Catering to deliver an impeccably organized celebration that adapted seamlessly to a crowd nearly twice the expected size.

The celebration would not have been as successful without the many volunteers, from drummer George Mrad to the dedicated flag bearers, who worked tirelessly from start to finish. Their efforts ensured smooth coordination despite the large crowd, and their presence added authenticity and emotional depth to a moment that deeply resonated with the community.

A Gathering That Reflected a Growing, Confident Community

The event revealed the presence of professionals, business leaders, clergy, students, newcomers, and long-established families. It painted a portrait of a Lebanese-Canadian community that is not only growing in numbers but asserting its place within Nova Scotia’s social and cultural landscape.

One attendee summarized the spirit of the day simply:
“This felt less like an event and more like a family gathering.”

A Celebration of Identity and Shared Future

From the solemn raising of the flag to the final folklore dance, the celebration embodied both pride in Lebanon and commitment to Canada. It was a reminder that identity can be multilayered, that roots can stretch across continents without weakening, and that community thrives wherever people stand together.

Yesterday’s message was clear:
Lebanon lives wherever its people gather with dignity, pride, and unity.