Our Story
And so the journey began…
Since the 1990s, Debel has spent its summers alive with activities, celebrations, and theater, centered around the summer kermesse (fair) organized by the Scouts of Lebanon, St. George Debel Troop. From that time on, Debel has remained a village that embraces joy and the arts, knowing exactly how to bring its residents and friends together for a beautiful evening.
Debel has long been a hub for artistic and cultural activities. Back in the 1970s, it even hosted the legendary artist Wadih El Safi, keeping the spirit of art and celebration an integral part of its identity.
In 2017, the idea began to grow.
Three scout leaders came together and proposed a simple idea:
Why not evolve the kermesse into a larger festival? One that would attract people from the region, revitalize the village, support the local economy, and encourage expatriates to return to Debel and enjoy its nights.
The troop leadership did not hesitate to give the green light. And so, the story began…
From a festival to an annual event
It started with modest means and little outside support, under the title “Our Nights Have Returned”. The first night drew more people than anyone expected, and a project was born that would grow year after year.
Each edition was better organized and drew larger crowds. The festival carried on through a pandemic, economic crises, and war, and in 2023 it took its place among the region’s premier summer festivals.
Explore every edition on the timelineArt, culture, and tourism in service of the village
Since its inception, the Debel Festival has been about far more than concerts and summer nights. One of its first goals was to help build the headquarters of the Scouts of Lebanon, St. George Troop, Debel. Thanks to the generosity of donors and a portion of the festival’s proceeds, it was built, a gathering place for the troop and for generations to come.
- A share of the revenue funds projects and services for the people of Debel.
- It brings visitors to the village and supports local businesses.
- It brings expatriates home, even if only for a few days.
The Debel Festivals Committee
As the festival grew, it outgrew a project managed solely by the troop leadership. In 2023, Eli Zaknoun, troop leader at the time, decided with the leadership team and the General Commission of the Scouts of Lebanon to separate the festival administratively from the troop. The troop remains a key partner and organizes specific activities.
The Debel Festivals Committee was founded to run the festival under clear regulations. It brings together current and former troop members, combining experience, enthusiasm, and a spirit of volunteering. Eli Zaknoun, who originated the idea and led the project from the start, became its founding president.
Meet The Team
The people behind Debel
Eli Zaknoun
Founder & Executive President
Milia Louka
Vice President
Joanna Nassif
General Treasurer
Maria Matar
General Secretary
Michel Nassif
General Logistics Coordinator
Lamitta Zaknoun
General Marketing Manager
Elias Fares
Project Manager
A Message
From Our Founder
Every year, as the lights come on and the first notes fill the village streets, I am reminded of why we come together. Debel is more than a place. It is a feeling, a shared memory, and a family that grows stronger with every celebration. It is the sound of our music, the warmth of our people, and the traditions we carry from one generation to the next. This festival is a celebration of who we are and where we come from. Welcome home.
Eli Zaknoun
Founder & Executive President
And today…
From the first idea in 2017, through years of success, the pandemic, economic crises, security challenges, and wars, all the way to the postponement of the eighth edition, the core vision has remained alive.
For Debel to endure.
For Debel to keep bringing its people together.
For Debel to keep creating joy, come what may.
The Debel Festival was never merely a stage, a concert, or a set design. It was, and remains, the story of people who believed in their village, volunteered for its sake, and turned its nights into beautiful memories.
And the journey of the Debel Festival… is far from over.