Lebanon belongs to a Mediterranean climate, characterized by significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the four seasons, with traditional events and cultural activities developing according to each season. Below, I summarize the climatic characteristics and main seasonal events by spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Spring (March to May)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: 12 to 20°C in coastal areas, still cool in mountainous regions due to melting snow
- Precipitation: Rain persists in March, but moves towards the dry season from late April
- Characteristics: A time when wildflowers bloom in the mountains and greenery spreads
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| March |
Easter |
Christian holiday. A harmonious blend of vibrant streets after the rain and church ceremonies |
| April |
Eid al-Fitr |
Celebration marking the end of Ramadan. Families and friends gather for meals outdoors in warm, sunny weather |
| May |
Labor Day |
May 1. Demonstrations and cultural events take place in the mild spring weather |
Summer (June to August)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: 25 to 35°C in coastal areas, even higher inland
- Precipitation: Almost no rainfall, dry conditions
- Characteristics: Beaches and mountainous resorts are bustling
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| June |
Eid al-Adha |
Occurs between June and August. Rituals of animal sacrifice and feasting take place during sunny weather |
| July |
Baalbek International Festival |
Music and dance performances held at ancient ruins. The nighttime sea breeze makes the venue pleasant |
| August |
Beit Eddine Summer Festival |
Theater and music festivals in the palace courtyard. Events are mainly held in the evening to avoid the heat |
Autumn (September to November)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: Still hot in September, dropping to around 20°C in October and November
- Precipitation: Little rainfall in September, returns in October
- Characteristics: Dryness eases, marking the harvest season
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| September |
Grape Harvest Festival (Bekaa Valley) |
Utilizing the warm days, tastings of new wine and markets by wine producers are held |
| October |
Olive Harvest Festival |
Olive picking experiences and tastings of new oil are conducted in cooler weather |
| November |
Independence Day |
November 22. Flag-raising and military parades take place under autumn clear skies |
Winter (December to February)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: 10 to 15°C in coastal areas, below freezing with snowfall in mountainous regions
- Precipitation: Rainy season from December to February, with snow in the mountains
- Characteristics: A unique landscape where the sea and snowy mountains are in close proximity
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
| December |
Christmas |
While some mild rainy days occur in coastal areas, church services and illuminations shine brightly |
| January |
New Year |
Fireworks and celebrations take place amidst the contrast of cold sea winds and snowy mountains |
| February |
Ski Season Opening |
Skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed at mountain resorts like Mzaar Al Bektash |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationship
| Season |
Climatic Characteristics |
Examples of Main Events |
| Spring |
Decreased rainfall, blooming flowers |
Easter, Eid al-Fitr, Labor Day |
| Summer |
Dry, hot, beach season |
Eid al-Adha, Baalbek International Festival, Beit Eddine Summer Festival |
| Autumn |
Cool breezes after the heat, harvest season |
Grape Harvest Festival, Olive Harvest Festival, Independence Day |
| Winter |
Rainy season, mountain snowfall |
Christmas, New Year, Ski Season Opening |
Additional Notes
- The Mediterranean climate's rainy and dry seasons form the timing of agricultural and religious events.
- Climatic differences between mountainous regions and coastal areas create diverse leisure and cultural experiences.
- Holidays are based on both Islamic and Christian calendars, and there are celebration styles that align with the climate.
In Lebanon, the seasonal climate is deeply intertwined with traditional events and agricultural culture, and distinctive local customs are preserved across different regions.
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