8th Edition of National Traditional Algerian Costume Festival to Be Held July 20-23

More than 40 artisans and designers representing 20 wilayas will participate in the 8th edition of the National Algerian Costume Festival, scheduled to take place in Algiers from July 20 to 23, under the theme: "From the Jebba to the Blouza: Creative Designs for an Authentic Identity," the Festival Commissioner announced Tuesday in Algiers.

During a press conference at the Palace of the Rais (Bastion 23) Arts and Culture Center, which will host the event, Ms. Faiza Riache stated that the festival "aims to highlight the significance of traditional Algerian costume as a key component of national identity," while promoting artisanal crafts and encouraging heritage-inspired creativity.

Regarding the choice of theme for this edition, Ms. Riache affirmed that "the Jebba and the Blouza are everyday garments that have accompanied Algerian women through various stages of their lives," in moments of joy and mourning, and during both official ceremonies and simple daily life.

She specified that the festival "is not limited to these two garments but encompasses all traditional costumes across the country, reflecting the richness of Algeria's geographical and cultural diversity."

According to the commissioner, the program for this edition is built around four main pillars, including an academic component dedicated to documenting the history of the Jebba and the Blouza, as well as the study of Algerian costume and its accessories.

The second pillar focuses on designers and artisans. This edition sees "record participation," as online registration attracted "more than 40 artisans and designers from 20 wilayas," in addition to "the participation of members of the Algerian community established abroad in exhibitions, workshops, and the inaugural parade."

Organizers have also planned a training component featuring practical workshops specializing in traditional embroidery and sewing techniques.

The program includes lectures dedicated to the Blouza, shedding light on the history of this female garment from western Algeria and the efforts being made to inscribe it on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Meetings will also address cultural security and the role of civil society in preserving Algeria's intangible cultural heritage.