News Editor
Jordan Daily - Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts will celebrate its 40th edition this year with a diverse programme of cultural and artistic events aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and reinforcing the festival's regional and international standing, its chief executive officer said.
Yazan Al Khadiri, CEO of the Jerash Festival, highlighted in a televised interview the festival's role as a platform for leading artists, poets and performers since its establishment in 1980.
"We rely on this great legacy as we prepare for the 40th edition," Al Khadiri noted.
He said improving the visitor experience and strengthening the international profile of both Jerash and Jordan are among the festival's main objectives this year.
Al Khadiri described the festival as a comprehensive cultural, artistic and national project that extends beyond music performances. The 2026 programme will feature 207 events, including 95 cultural activities, some of which will be hosted at the Royal Cultural Center in Amman and others in the ancient city of Jerash.
"This reflects the richness of the cultural programme, not just the artistic programme," he said.
While performances at Jerash's Southern Theatre have traditionally attracted the most media attention, organizers have sought to broaden the festival's focus by expanding cultural programming and giving greater visibility to literature, poetry, visual arts, theatre and dance.
According to Al Khadiri, Jordanian participation will account for about 151 of the festival's activities, with roughly 300 Jordanian artists taking part.
"Jerash is a platform to unleash the creativity and energy of our young people and artists, of whom we are very proud," he said.
He added that while more than 60% of the programme highlights Jordanian talent, the festival will also feature a strong Arab and international presence, reflecting its position as one of the region's leading cultural events.
