Last year proved what Halifax could do. This year, let’s take it even further!
On Saturday, November 7, the Lebanese Film Festival in Canada (LFFC) returns to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 for a spectacular tenth-anniversary red-carpet gala.
An elegant evening of cinema, music, entertainment and Lebanese hospitality awaits, highlighted by a live performance from Lebanese singer Laury Haddad, travelling from Lebanon for her first Canadian appearance.
But there is a bigger story behind this invitation.
The remarkable success of last year’s gala marked a watershed moment for Lebanese cultural life in Halifax.
Now, the challenge is to build on that success and make the tenth anniversary an even more memorable celebration.
Last Year’s Gala: A Turning Point
The ninth-edition red-carpet gala at Pier 21 on November 9, 2025 was quiet an evening!
The hall was alive with excitement. Elegant gowns, stylish suits, flashing cameras, warm embraces and conversations flowing in Arabic, French and English.
Lebanese families mingled with artists, students, community leaders and Nova Scotians from different backgrounds.
The discussion following the screening offered fascinating insights into filmmaking amid Lebanon’s economic collapse, the pandemic and the Beirut port explosion.
The evening also featured distinguished guests alongside representatives of educational, cultural and community institutions.
Saxophonist Roy Youness added musical elegance, while dedicated volunteers, photographers and organizers ensured that the celebration ran smoothly.
The atmosphere was extraordinary.
Yet the real achievement went beyond the glamour.
For me, it was a watershed moment because Lebanese cinema had established itself as a genuine meeting place for Halifax’s wider community.
It was no longer simply a Lebanese gathering. It had become a celebration of culture, diversity and belonging.
The enthusiasm demonstrated that Halifax was ready for more.
November 7: The Red Carpet Returns!
This year’s gala, held under the patronage of Wadih Fares, Consul of Lebanon in Halifax, promises another exceptional evening.
The celebration takes place at Kenneth C. Rowe Hall, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, 1055 Marginal Road.
Doors open at 6 p.m.
At 6:30 p.m., guests will enjoy a welcome cocktail reception and red-carpet photographs.
The official tenth-anniversary ceremony begins at 7:30 p.m., followed by a Lebanese film screening with English subtitles at 8:30 p.m.
Then, at 9:30 p.m., the celebration continues with an anniversary after-party, a special toast and a live performance by Laury Haddad.
The evening is scheduled to continue until 11:30 p.m.
And yes, the dress code is formal evening attire!
So bring out that elegant dress or favourite suit. Gather your friends, enjoy the red carpet and prepare for a memorable night.
A Celebration for Everyone
This is not an event exclusively for Lebanese Canadians.
It is an invitation to all Nova Scotians.
You do not need to speak Arabic. The film has English subtitles.
You do not need Lebanese ancestry to appreciate the music, entertainment, hospitality and cultural experience.
Bring your Canadian friends, colleagues, neighbours and family members.
Introduce someone to Lebanese cinema.
Enjoy an evening that celebrates both our heritage and the multicultural character of Halifax.
The greater the diversity of the audience, the more meaningful the celebration becomes.
Last year’s gala demonstrated what is possible when a community comes together.
This year, we should aim even higher.
Remember those who missed last year’s celebration and regretted it afterward? Don’t make the same mistake. This year, be part of the memories, not the regrets!
Call your friends. Organize your group. Invite someone who has never experienced Lebanese cinema.
Let’s fill Pier 21 with Lebanese Canadians and friends from every background.
And let’s make the tenth anniversary an evening worthy of the milestone.
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