Beirut’s beloved Souk El Tayeb, Lebanon’s first farmers’ market since 2004, is embarking on a new journey that goes beyond food. With the launch of the Community Souk, the market’s home in Mar Mikhael transforms into a lively social hub, one where community, culture and cuisine meet under one shared purpose: to celebrate togetherness.

A New Chapter of Connection

Rooted in the values that have long defined Souk El Tayeb: sustainability, inclusivity and respect for local producers; the Community Souk reimagines the market as a space of gathering and exchange. From shared meals and lively games to thought-provoking talks and seasonal markets, the program invites visitors to reconnect with one another and rediscover the meaning of community.

Weekly gatherings at Tawlet Mar Mikhael include Ghada el Tayeb, joyful lunches dedicated to those in need, and the Tawlet Tournament, where friends and neighbors meet over backgammon. Meanwhile, the Speakers’ Corner, organized in collaboration with local associations, sparks open dialogue on cultural and environmental topics that matter to the community.

Beyond these weekly events, seasonal markets like Souk el Kotob wel Souwar, a celebration of books and photography, and Souk el Laa’ta, a flea market of preloved treasures, turn Souk El Tayeb into a place where stories are exchanged as much as goods.

Taking the Souk Beyond Beirut

Complementing this new spirit of connection, Souk El Tayeb has launched satellite markets, extending its reach beyond Mar Mikhael to new neighborhoods and audiences across Lebanon.

The farmers’ market now pops up every Tuesday at IRAP Accueil in Rabweh (9 am to 2 pm), every Wednesday at ABC Achrafieh (10 am to 6 pm), and every Saturday at Mar Mikhael (9 am to 2 pm). Each market reflects Souk El Tayeb’s ethos, bringing local producers closer to consumers, promoting sustainable practices and strengthening social bonds across communities.

Through partnerships with organizations like IRAP, which supports people with hearing disabilities, and venues like ABC, which opens new doors for small producers, Souk El Tayeb continues to bridge worlds, rural and urban, traditional and modern.

More Than a Market

At its heart, the Community Souk is a celebration of Lebanon’s enduring spirit, one that thrives through sharing, resilience and care. Whether you come to shop, play or simply connect, Souk El Tayeb reminds us that food is not just about what we eat, but how we live together.

If you enjoyed reading this article, check out our interview with Kamal Mouzawak.