The streets of Damascus are buzzing with excitement as Christmas celebrations take on a renewed vibrancy in the post-Assad era.
The fall of the long-standing regime has brought not only political change but also a renewed sense of hope and joy among Syrians, who are embracing the festive season with unparalleled enthusiasm.
Damascus Comes Alive with Lights and Festivities
In the heart of Damascus, the ancient Old City has transformed into a dazzling spectacle of lights and decorations. The famed Straight Street, or al-Mustaqeem, is lined with brightly lit cafes, restaurants, and shops adorned with Christmas trees and Free Syria flags.
Bab Sharqi, the neighborhood bordering the Eastern Gate, echoes with the sounds of music and laughter as Syrians rediscover the joy of celebration.
Read : Turkey Denies Ceasefire Deal with US-Backed Kurdish Rebels in Syria
The fall of Bashar al-Assad on December 8 sparked nationwide jubilation, and the festive spirit has only grown since. While the decorations might be modest compared to previous years, the atmosphere is electrifying.
Read : Syria : One Of the Most Violent Countries In the World
Carol al-Sahhaf, a local Damascene, described the mood as a “cut above,” reflecting the renewed optimism in the air. Syrians are celebrating not just Christmas but a new era of freedom and hope after decades of oppression.
Lights, Cookies, and a Renewed Sense of Unity
In preparation for the holidays, Damascus residents have been busy decking out their streets and homes. Olga al-Muuti, a local baker, has been crafting cookie-decorating kits to help families add a sweet touch to their celebrations. Her bakery, nestled along Straight Street, has become a hub for holiday shoppers eager to embrace the festive spirit.
“After 14 years of war, I hope the coming year brings us peace, love, and the chance to live with dignity,” Olga shared.
Just a short walk from Olga’s bakery, Bab Touma Street is aglow with exuberant lights, capturing the hearts of passersby. Among them is 72-year-old Akop Safarian, who, like many of his neighbors, has decorated his home and street with renewed zeal. His prayer for peace in Syria and the world resonates with the collective hope of a nation seeking healing and unity.
As families gather to celebrate, there is a palpable sense of solidarity among Syrians. Carol al-Sahhaf, while browsing a handicrafts stall in Qishleh, expressed her optimism for the future despite the challenges ahead.
She acknowledged the pain of the past, particularly the atrocities committed in Assad’s prisons, and emphasized the importance of remembering those who suffered while also looking forward to a brighter future.
A New Dawn for Damascus
The fall of Assad’s regime marks a turning point for Syria, and nowhere is this more evident than in the streets of Damascus. The city’s Christmas market has become a symbol of resilience and hope, drawing crowds from all walks of life to celebrate together. The green, white, and black Free Syria flags flutter alongside Christmas lights, embodying the spirit of unity and renewal.
Rawad Diop, originally from Safita near Tartous, encapsulated the mood of many Syrians when he said, “I see smiles on people’s faces that I hadn’t seen before.” The joy of the festive season, coupled with the optimism for a better future, has created a unique atmosphere in the city.
As the celebrations continue, Syrians are cautiously optimistic about the road ahead. The years of war and suffering have left deep scars, but the determination to rebuild and reclaim their lives is stronger than ever. The Christmas market in Damascus is more than just a festive event; it is a testament to the resilience and unity of the Syrian people.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏