Baghdad, Iraq- The much-anticipated Spring Literary Gathering is set to launch, offering a dynamic program of cultural and artistic activities. This year’s edition, titled “A Spring Stroll with Books,” will bring together writers, poets, and artists for a week filled with enriching discussions and performances.
The event will begin on Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m. with a special session dedicated to Yazidi culture. The morning session will feature poetry readings led by critic Dr. Karim Subh. In the evening, a storytelling session will take place at 8 p.m., directed by writer Khudair Flayeh Al-Zaidi. The night will conclude with a theatrical performance by artists Haval Sheikh and Raad Shari, followed by a spiritual music segment presented by artist Talal Ali.
Throughout the week, the Spring Literary Gathering will showcase an array of literary and artistic engagements. One highlight is a presentation on “The Journey of a Thousand Books,” exploring publications released by the organizing committee. This will be followed by poetry readings from poet Mudar Al-Alousi and a special discussion on the literary journey of poet Rana Jaafar Yassin, moderated by poet Rawia Al-Shaer. Additionally, the “Storyteller” session will feature experts Talib Al-Sayyid and Yasser Al-Obaidi, with novelist Khalid Al-Wadi serving as moderator.
On Monday, March 3, at 8 p.m., a panel titled “Readings and Critical Perspectives” will welcome poet Nofal Abu Ragheef and critic Faiz Al-Shar’a. Afterward, musician Anwar Abu Dragh will discuss his artistic journey and present live musical samples, moderated by critic Dr. Ahmed Al-Zubaidi.
Tuesday, March 4, will focus on philosophical discussions led by researcher Ali Al-Marhaj and moderated by critic Ahmed Al-Dhafiri. Following this, artist Star Al-Nasser will deliver a lecture titled “Cinematic Operetta,” moderated by researcher Saleh Al-Sahan. The day will conclude with a literary competition hosted by poet Dr. Hazem Al-Shammari.
The program will continue on Wednesday, March 5, with a session on Baghdad as a cultural tourism hub, presented by Omar Al-Alawi, an advisor to the Prime Minister on tourism affairs. The evening will feature poetry readings by renowned poet Nazem Al-Samawi, accompanied by musical performances from artist Jamal Al-Samawi. The night will wrap up with a theatrical performance titled “The Dream of the Mesaharati,” written by Saad Younis and directed by Abdul Karim Salman.
On Thursday, March 6, a major poetry session will feature readings by poets Kareem Shaghidel, Ajwad Mujbil, Kareem Jakhyur, Namik Sultan, Yass Al-Saeedi, and Redha Al-Sayyid Jaafar. The event will also include a special segment dedicated to traditional Baghdad-style poetry, led by poet Kareem Al-Qaisi. The night will conclude with a discussion on Iraqi theater, featuring writer Salem Al-Zaidi and novelist Alia Talib.
As the week draws to a close, Friday, March 7, will be dedicated to honoring poet Hassan Abdul Radi for winning a prestigious literary award. The session will be moderated by critic Saad Al-Tamimi, followed by a musical performance by the Iraqi Maqam Ensemble featuring artist Taha Gharib.
The final day, Saturday, March 8, will celebrate International Women’s Day with a poetry session featuring poets Farah Al-Douski, Israa Al-Asadi, Janan Al-Sayegh, Huda Al-Tai, Ibtehal Balibil, Aliaa Al-Maliki, Hitham Youssef Taher, Faraqad Al-Saad, and Nawras Al-Jaberi. The event will conclude with a special musical performance by the Baghdad Women’s Ensemble and artist Shahd Al-Samawi.
Throughout the week, the Spring Literary Gathering will also host book signing events and artistic exhibitions alongside an ongoing book fair. The book fair, featuring Iraqi publishing houses and cultural institutions, will run daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., ensuring a rich literary experience for all attendees.
