We’ve all heard our fair share of nostalgic stories about old Beirut: its glamorous nightlife, vibrant flower shops, bargain buys, non-stop tramways; you name it. But one thing Beirut was especially known for is its markets.
Before its reconstruction into a demographic-changing ghost town, the Beirut Central District, or – to call it with its right name – El Balad overflowed with souks of all sorts: jewels, couture, artisanal creations, fresh produce, flowers, …. However, today it has lost its characteristic chaos as well as its support of local economies, and looks more like an outdoor mall than a marketplace.
Don’t despair, though; there remain a few recurring pop-up markets around town that aim to encourage local products.
Tuesday
The Beirut Earth Market
Organized by the Slow Food Foundation, this farmer’s market aims to preserve interest in food choice, tradition, and cultivation, as opposed to the fast-paced, eat-what-you-can-lay-hands-on lifestyle we have developed.
What? Bread, spices, herbs, honeys, pastries, and more, by 15 farmers and producers from areas around Beirut
A bi-weekly farmer’s market where Lebanese food traditions and small farming are promoted for all generations to enjoy. Find fresh seasonal products home-grown and made by Lebanese farmers.
What? Fruits and vegetables, juice, pastries, baked goods, dairy products, and derivatives.
When and where? 12 PM to 6 PM, Geffinor Center, Clemenceau
Thursday
Souk el Akel
A compilation of Lebanon’s best street food set on featuring the world of cuisines and novelty edibles Beirut has to offer. It has dubbed itself a “traveling culinary feast,” so keep an eye open for its out of town events.
What? Lebanese, Middle Eastern, and International street food made by local cooks, chefs, and eateries.
When and where? 5 PM to 11 PM, parallel to Foch Street by the Seaside road, Beirut City Center, or occasionally in special locations.
Saturday
Souk el Tayeb
Originally, Souk el Tayeb was a recurring Saturday market, until they (recently) added their Wednesday edition. Nevertheless, you now have the choice to go to one or the other… or both!
What? Fruits and vegetables, juice, pastries, baked goods, dairy products, and derivatives.
When and where? 9 AM to 2 PM, Trablos Street, Beirut Souks
Sunday
Souk el Ahad
Photo by R. Pelgrim, via Jadaliyya
Strap on your haggling boots and head to Beirut’s weekend flea market to find things you never knew you needed. If you’re lucky you’ll come across a rare gem in a mound of replicas. Get digging!
What? Clothes, vintage items, antiques, second-hand books, knock-offs, foodstuffs, etc.
When and where? Every Saturday and Sunday, Jisr el Wati, off Corniche el Nahr
Special Mentions
Monot Street Book Market
A monthly outdoor book market where you can buy, sell, and exchange books, DVDs, or magazines.
What? Books of all genres, old and new, in English, French or Arabic.
When and where? First Saturday of every month, across Recto Verso Library, Monot
Souk Abou Rakhousa
Born as a response to Head of Beirut Traders Association Nicolas Chammas’s discontent with YouStink protest and their “cheapening” the exclusionary Beirut City Center, Souk Abou Rakhousa takes its name from his televised viral outburst. It has since become a recurring event open to people from all walks of life with local products for the lowest of prices.
What? Clothes, food, crafts, inflatables, and more.
When and where? Occasionally at Martyr’s Square. The next one is on Saturday June 4
Souk el Yasmeen and the Lebanese Flower Market
A throwback souk dedicated to a time when a densely flowering Beirut smelled like jasmine.
What? Flowers, local plant produce, and crafts.
When and where? Occasionally at Beirut Souks.
STATION Themed Markets
This hybrid space is home to several themed markets. Over the years, it has held Christmas markets, Spring markets, Design markets, and more.
What? An ever-changing souk, depending on the theme and/or season.
When and where? Occasionally at Station, Jisr el Wati, off Corniche el Nahr.
