The Mosul Maqam Festival, held on September 27th 2024 in Mosul Ghabat park overlooking the Tigris, marks a historic celebration of resilience and cultural revival. It is the first festival of its kind in the city, dedicated to reviving Mosul’s ancient Iraqi Maqam music, which has faced threats of extinction due to decades of war and occupation. The event will feature traditional Maqam performances by masters Ramiz al-Rawi and Fakhri Fadhil, as well as innovative collaborations between Amir El-Saffar and young talented Mosuli musicians and Maqam reciters from various genres, including jazz. Organized by a project supported by the British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund, the festival highlights community efforts to safeguard and celebrate Mosul’s rich musical heritage, showcasing the talent and spirit of its people as they rebuild their city and culture. Mosul Forest is home to beloved recreational spaces on the city’s left bank. Once used by ISIS to train fighters and recruit children, it celebrated Mosul’s resilience and Mosulis’ commitment to bringing the city back to life. A special highlight at the festival was the attendance of the renowned Iraqi Maqam reader and Iraq Idol, Mohammed Sajad.