The city of Béjaïa in Algeria's Kabylie region recently celebrated Yennayer, the Nouvel An berbère, with great fervor. On the first day of celebrations, the local associative movement gathered to attempt to break the record for the longest meal table in the world, stretching it across the city's streets. This event was part of a broader effort to make Yennayer a festive and commemorative day.
As part of the celebrations, officials and associations joined forces to organize a parade in the city's streets the day before. Participants, dressed in traditional Kabyle robes and burnous, added charm to the procession. The event was a vibrant display of Kabyle culture and identity. The city's residents and visitors alike were seen enjoying the festivities.
The Yennayer market, which was opened on January 5 by the APC de Béjaïa, drew thousands of visitors until the end of the celebrations. The market, now in its second edition, was set up at a large area near the lake. It provided an opportunity for local artisans and farmers to showcase their products and skills.
A book fair and exhibition of local products were also organized at the city's main library, starting from Thursday. The event, which was set up by the Direction de la culture and the Direction de la jeunesse et des sports, allowed dozens of artisans and farmers to display and sell their goods. The fair was officially inaugurated by the wali de Béjaïa on Saturday.
Several cultural and scientific events were organized in Béjaïa over the past two days. A conference on "Chachnaq in the sacred books" was given by Boualem Djouhri, director of religious affairs. Additionally, researchers led conferences on the symbolism and history of Yennayer at the Targa Ouzemmour campus.
On the evening of the celebrations, the Collectif des femmes libres de Béjaïa performed a choreographed dance at the 1er Novembre square in solidarity with mistreated women. The collective also paid tribute to the late filmmaker Chérif Aggoune at the Béjaïa cinematheque. Later, the election of Miss and Mister Amazigh 2970 took place at the Théâtre régional de Béjaïa.
The festivities concluded with a conference on Yennayer, held in a local hall, in honor of the late Idir Achour, a militant and trade unionist. A traditional Kabyle couscous, Ouvissar, was served in the evening, delighting the large crowd that had gathered to celebrate this symbolic date. The 52 communes of the wilaya of Béjaïa took part in the celebrations, marking Yennayer with great enthusiasm.
Key points
- The city of Béjaïa attempted to break the record for the longest meal table in the world.
- The celebrations included a range of cultural and scientific events, such as conferences and exhibitions.
- The festivities were marked by traditional Kabyle attire, music, and cuisine.
