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Festival of Palestinian Culture

 


Our Festival of Palestinian Culture is back for 2025, bigger and better! We're planning a whole week of events celebrating Palestinian culture, arts and traditions. 

Festival of Palestinian Culture 2025

August 25-31, 2025 | Dorchester, Dorset

A week-long celebration dedicated to preserving and promoting the vibrant cultural heritage of the Palestinian people. Through music, art, literature, cuisine, and community, we create a space where Palestinian voices are amplified and traditions are honored.

Festival Events

Art Exhibition: The Work of Malak Mattar

Monday 25 - Saturday 30 August | Loving by Nature, Dorchester

Experience the powerful and evocative artwork of internationally acclaimed Palestinian artist Malak Mattar. This week-long exhibition showcases Mattar's distinctive style, which emerged during the 2014 bombing of Gaza when she was just 14 years old. Her vivid, emotional paintings reflect Palestinian resilience and cultural identity. Join us for a special book reading with the artist on Saturday evening to close the exhibition.

Palestinian Comedy Night

Friday 29 August | The Kings Arms, Dorchester | 7 - 9pm

An evening of laughter and cultural connection featuring some of the most exciting Palestinian comedy talents. Headlined by Sami Abu Wardeh (Guardian's top 10 comedy acts of 2022) and rising star Farah Sharp ("One to Watch" - Funny Women Awards 2023), with brilliant supporting acts Joe Haddad, Af Marseh, and Mark Pencherz. Local favorite Gavin Egan will serve as MC for this not-to-be-missed night of humor that offers both entertainment and a powerful form of cultural expression.

SOLD OUT!

A Night of Conscious Rap

Saturday 30 August | The Vinyl Van | 8pm

Experience the lyrical power of conscious rap with three of the UK's most exciting emerging voices. Headliner Speit delivers sharp, punchy performances that explore his Palestinian heritage with both gritty realism and poetic insight. Professor Z brings multilingual magic, blending Arabic and English with traditional Maqam Scales, while Yung Yusuf offers emotional vulnerability and philosophical reflection on identity and belonging. This is hip hop with purpose – storytelling that centers social justice and cultural identity.

Get tickets

Festival Day in Borough Gardens

Saturday 30 August | Borough Gardens | 11am-4pm

The heart of our celebration! Join us for a full day of Palestinian culture in Dorchester's beautiful Borough Gardens. Experience live music from acclaimed performers Saied Silbak, Bint Mbareh, and Tasneim Zyada. Participate in traditional Tatreez embroidery workshops, enjoy authentic Palestinian cuisine, and browse our marketplace featuring Palestinian goods. Activities for all ages include storytelling, arts and crafts, and a dedicated children's tent. The Maqam Books pop-up shop will offer literature that deepens understanding of Palestinian culture and history.

Tatreez Jewellery Workshops

Saturday 30 August | Borough Gardens | 11am-1pm and 2pm - 4pm


Discover the art of beadwork with a cultural twist. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn to create a unique beaded necklace using the square stitch technique, featuring a pattern inspired by Palestinian Tatreez embroidery. You’ll master how to read a pattern diagram and bring intricate, symbolic designs to life with glass beads.By the end of the session, you’ll leave with a handcrafted necklace (complete with a stainless steel chain), blending traditional motifs with modern jewelry-making techniques.What’s Included:

✔ All materials provided (needles, threads, premium glass beads, and chain)

✔ Step-by-step guidance—perfect for beginners and experienced crafters

✔ A creative, welcoming atmosphere to explore your artistry

No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and excitement.Spaces are limited—secure your spot today.

Book your place here

Support the Festival

This celebration of Palestinian culture and resilience is only possible through community support. Your donations directly fund:

  • Fair payment for Palestinian artists and performers
  • Travel and accommodation costs for international participants
  • Venue rentals and technical equipment
  • Educational materials and workshop supplies

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps preserve Palestinian cultural heritage at a time when it faces unprecedented threats.

DONATE NOW

The Festival of Palestinian Culture is organized by Dorset Palestine Solidarity Campaign

Follow the Festival on social media for all the latest updates:



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