Hammana Cherry Festival
Hammana is a picturesque village located in a fertile valley surrounded by the mountains of Mount Lebanon. Perched at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley as well as the perfect climate for cherry trees: it enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate, with summers mild and cool winters. Plus, it makes it a popular summer destination to escape the coastal heat.
The great French poet and novelist Alphonse de Lamartine wrote after a stay in Hammana in the 19th century: “One of the most beautiful glimpses that man can cast on the work of God is the valley of Hammana”. Moreover, the large valley below the village bears his name.
Hammana lives all year round to the rhythm of festivals, culture and sports activities. The Cherry Festival in Hammana is a popular annual event in Lebanon that celebrates the cherry harvest. The village is famous for its delicious cherries across all varieties, black, red or yellow. The one-day festival is an opportunity for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy various activities related to cherries and local culture. There are usually stands for tasting fresh cherries, cherry-derived products such as jams, desserts, juices and traditional cherry dishes. Visitors and villagers can also enjoy musical performances, folk dances, local handicraft exhibitions, games and other entertainment. As a couple or as a family, adults or children, everyone has fun. Moreover, the activity of cherry picking connects people, big or small, to nature and enjoys the beauty of fruit picking.
Cherry trees were introduced to Hammana after World War I. Before this period, the villagers planted mulberry trees to feed the silkworm. The weather is ideal for the cherry trees since the village is located at an altitude of over 1000 meters. The idea of Cherry Festival began in the seventies, before the civil war, and it was accompanied by the election of “Miss Cherry”, and the whole town participates in it. Since 2008, the Hammana Municipality has been following up on its affairs under the title of Hammana Cherry Day helps to sell production.