St. Maroun Day, celebrated on the 9th of February, is a significant holiday in Lebanon. It's a national and public holiday that proudly pays tribute to St. Maroun, a renowned 5th-century monk. St. Maroun was known for his holiness and austerity, with his spiritual teachings leading to the establishment of the Maronite Church, a significant and influential entity in Lebanon's spiritual and social landscapes.
The day is marked with various activities and commemorations across the country. A series of religious ceremonies, including special masses and processions, are held in churches, particularly in Maronite parishes. The most famous of these is the mass held at St. Maroun Monastery in Annaya, Lebanon. Pilgrims from different parts of the country and even from abroad travel to celebrate the feast and honor the life and teachings of St. Maroun.
While St. Maroun Day might appear to be strictly religious, it's also celebrated by many non-Maronites and respects the country’s ideal of religious freedom and cultural diversity. For many Lebanese people, regardless of their religious affiliation, it's an opportunity to express unity and mutual respect. St. Maroun's Day isn't just about paying tribute to an important religious figure; it's a reflection of Lebanon's long-standing tradition of coexistence and religious harmony.