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INTERVIEW

AUB Outdoors festival: A post-COVID comeback

AUB Outdoors is back this year after a three-year hiatus. This student-led event is a fundraiser for AUB students in need of financial aid.

L’Orient Today, which is participating in the event, spoke with Nemer Abdulameer, the student serving as the festival’s chief operating officer. 

AUB Outdoors festival: A post-COVID comeback

(Credit: AUB Outdoors)

It’s been three years since the last AUB Outdoors took place. Why relaunch it now after three years of the crisis?

Due to COVID restrictions and disastrous financial conditions in the past three years, we were unable to host the event, which requires massive efforts and funds. This year, we strive to bring back joy to our community and revive the festival that has been held annually ever since 1982.

What is the objective of the event?

AUB Outdoors’ aims can be classified into two essential categories: to bring joy to people’s faces in times of distress and economic collapse, and to give a helping hand to those in need. AUB Outdoors is a fundraiser by definition.

All profits generated throughout the preparations, conduction and closure of the event are donated to students in need of a scholarship. This will enable students to pursue their dreams during these unfortunate and challenging times. The theme for this year will be about uniting all the countries all around the world despite the challenges and differences, hence the theme “The World Tour.”

What should people expect to see there?

We aspire to deliver the most fulfilling and enjoyable experience to our participants through three main pillars:

FOOD & GAMES: From a kids’ area to games for adults, our games are fun, proactive and entertaining. Visitors will be able to experience the diversified aspects of most countries around the world while enjoying various local and international cuisine.

CONCERT & ENTERTAINMENT: Our venue sports event-long visual and auditory entertainment. We will showcase debuting and well-known national and international music talents and make way for special guest appearances throughout the event. As part of our shows, our main lineups are:

Hiba Tawaji: The renowned Lebanese international star will be accompanied by Musical Director Oussama Rahbani on May 28 at 9 p.m.

Willy William: He will take the stage on May 28 at 7:50 p.m.

A7S: He will perform on May 27 at 9:20 p.m.

FRIENDS & FAMILY, STUDENTS & ALUMNI: The Outdoors organizing committee provides a safe and suitable environment for families and friends of all ages. We pave the way for participants to join in groups and enjoy some quality time.

How many people are working on the festival?

AUB Outdoors is organized solely by AUB students under the supervision of the Office of Student Affairs. The event is organized by over 600 student volunteers.

How many people are expected to show up? How many people showed up last time it took place?

Our event previously hosted up to 24,000 attendees every year. This year we are expecting up to 20,000 attendees.


The festival will take place on the AUB campus on Saturday and Sunday, May 27 and 28, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Tickets are on sale at ihjoz.com. Prices start at $3.5 for a single-day pass.

L’Orient Today is a partner of the event. We will be present both days; come by and say hi! 

It’s been three years since the last AUB Outdoors took place. Why relaunch it now after three years of the crisis?Due to COVID restrictions and disastrous financial conditions in the past three years, we were unable to host the event, which requires massive efforts and funds. This year, we strive to bring back joy to our community and revive the festival that has been held annually ever since...