Tourism in Lebanon may have been dealt a blow by the recent political crises, but the country's cultural life is blooming. Summer is known for its music and cultural festivals, the most renowned of which are the Beitiddine and the Baalbek Festivals, extending from July to end of August. Lebanon's cultural productions this year have made it to the New York and Cannes, France.

The New York International Film Festival is running a film by Lebanese director Zeina Daccache. The movie, 12 Angry Lebanese, tells the story of 12 men at Lebanon's largest prison. This story has been the subject of controversy given the numerous riots that have broken out in prisons due to maltreatment and lack of basic rights. The dire situation led to clashes among the inmates and security guards, resulting in the injury of at least ten prisoners last month. Human rights activists continue to call on the authorities to address what one Lebanese minister called a "time bomb."

The Beirut International Film Festival will be screening films that were previously censored in the country, under the slogan "Forbidden Films Festival." The movies that were censored discuss stories of massacres in the Lebanese civil war, and another on the Iranian Green Movement, which was blocked due to a visit by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Lebanon late last year.

In addition to movies, Lebanese artists and intellectuals have much in store for this summer. The Samir Kassir Foundation, established after the assassination of Lebanese journalist and intellectual Samir Kassir on June 2, 2005, is hosting artists and intellectuals from the Middle East and North Africa at its annual Beirut Spring Festival.

Beirut's nightlife is living up to its reputation, with American pop artists, such as Shakira, attracting thousands in weekly concerts and performances. Outside of Beirut, the prestigious Beitiddine and Baalbek Festivals continue to attract hundreds of fans of world renowned musicians and performers. This year's performances include jazz, ballet, piano recitals and musical theaters. The numerous activities prove yet again that despite political tensions and government deadlock, the Lebanese still pride themselves for an indefatigable love of life.