On July 2, the annually acclaimed Jounieh International Festival kicked off its summer festivities with its amazing opening ceremony during which an exalting 5^th edition fireworks show lit up the sky of the city under the enchanted eyes of the spectators.

During that magical night, hundreds of citizens and tourists eagerly flowed into the city to witness the natural beauty of the bay of Jounieh as it sparkled under the shimmering lights of the fireworks show.

The longest pyrotechnic show of its kind started at 10: 30 pm sharp and lasted for 10 minutes allowing the audience to joyfully gaze at the rays of colors and light fountains as they swayed along the coastline in harmony with the accompanying music.

A hot air balloons show across the Harissa Mountain and a boat gathering in the heart of the Bay of Jounieh also accompanied the event.

The inaugural ceremony was broadcasted live by MTV and other local radio stations such as Nostalgie, NRJ and Aghani Aghani. Thanks to this live broadcast, visitors wandering in the streets of the Old Souks and those sitting in the city’s restaurants and hilly cafés were also able to enjoy the lively beat of the festive show.

The successful launching of the festival, organized by PHELLIPOLIS, a non-profit organization founded by Neemat Frem, with the collaboration of the municipality of Jounieh, and carried out by ICE is a solid proof of the parties’ fruitful efforts.

A special sailing permit was granted to the event organizers to allow the boat and yacht owners to sail away at night into the wonderful heart of the sea. The departing boats and yachts were escorted by a cruise ship hosting on board political, economic, social, military and media figures who had been officially invited by the president of the festival, Neemat Frem. The boat trip was accompanied by the oriental melodies of international Dj, Said Mrad.

As usual, participants in the annual photo contest, rushed to take the most breathtaking picture and seize the chance to be declared one of the valuable prizes winners.

It was indeed a wonderful night that incited visitors to take part in the scheduled concerts and family activities that will be unveiled by the festival up till July 15: Majida El Roumy July 4^th, The Voice France July 6^th, Jamel Debbouze July 8^th, Jhonny Hallyday July 9^th, and Jessie J on July 15^th.