Journey Through Time” Initiative Revives Palestinian Celebrations in Birzeit Old City

As part of the “Journey Through Time” initiative, the squares and alleyways of Birzeit’s Old City were transformed into a vibrant Palestinian scene filled with joy and heritage, reviving traditional henna rituals, folk songs, ululations, and dabke performances. The celebration reflected the beauty of the Palestinian wedding and its deep connection to identity, collective memory, and belonging.

With a large audience in attendance, an authentic Palestinian henna celebration was held for a couple preparing for their wedding two days later. Families and young people joined together in creating a genuine atmosphere that demonstrated how heritage is not simply a story from the past, but a living memory passed from one generation to the next, reflecting the resilience of Palestinian society and its strong attachment to its identity.

The success of this stage of the initiative was made possible through broad community collaboration between Sharek Youth Forum, Al-Urjuwan for Traditional Attire, Birzeit Municipality, the Birzeit Cultural Council, and Zaghrouda Troupe, alongside a number of heritage and artistic groups whose performances showcased the richness, beauty, and diversity of Palestinian folk arts.

The “Journey Through Time” initiative is implemented in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with the aim of documenting and reviving Palestinian heritage and transforming historic towns into vibrant spaces where young people can connect with their cultural and social heritage and contribute to passing it on to future generations.

From the heart of Birzeit’s Old City, the couple, the community, and partner organizations came together to create a story of success—one that demonstrates how a community united around its heritage can bring collective memory to life and turn Palestinian celebration into a powerful message of resilience, hope, and belonging.

#JourneyThroughTime #BirzeitOldCity #PalestinianHenna #PalestinianHeritage #PalestinianCelebration #SharekYouthForum #UNFPA #ThisIsPalestine