ROUM, Lebanon — A summer donkey race in southern Lebanon turned a village gathering into a colourful spectacle on Sunday, with decorated animals, cheering spectators and riders competing for the top spot.
The traditional event took place in Roum village on September 6, bringing participants and crowds together as donkeys raced through the course. Some of the animals were dressed with bows, sunglasses, coloured ribbons and crocheted flowers around their hooves, according to photographs from the Associated Press.
The unusual decorations added a festive element to the competition, with spectators using their mobile phones to capture photographs and cheer on the riders. AP images from the event show participants racing through the village while supporters gathered along the route.
Kevin Nakhleh takes the win
Kevin Nakhleh, 21, emerged as the winner of the race after riding his donkey, Al-Aawar, to victory. Photographs from the event show Nakhleh holding a trophy alongside his donkey after the competition.
The race featured a range of participants and donkeys, including one rider dressed as a clown. Other images showed donkeys decorated with colourful ribbons as they passed the spectators.
For the village, the event provided a lively summer gathering centred on a long-standing rural tradition. The combination of competition, costumes and crowds gave the race a distinctly festive character.
A colourful village tradition
While donkey racing is rooted in rural traditions in parts of Lebanon, the Roum event also offered a visual celebration for the local community. Spectators gathered close to the race route, applauding participants and photographing the decorated animals.
The September 6 event comes as southern Lebanon continues to attract international attention for security and political developments. Against that wider backdrop, the village race provided a different glimpse of everyday community life in the region.
The AP photo coverage captured the event through scenes of riders competing, spectators cheering and decorated donkeys moving through the course.
The winner, Nakhleh, ultimately left Roum with the trophy after completing the race aboard Al-Aawar.
What happened in Roum, Lebanon?
A traditional summer donkey race was held in Roum village in southern Lebanon on September 6, 2026, attracting participants and spectators.
Who won the donkey race?
Kevin Nakhleh, 21, won the race riding his donkey, Al-Aawar.
Where was the donkey race held?
The event took place in Roum village in southern Lebanon.
When did the race take place?
The race was held on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
How were the donkeys decorated?
The donkeys were photographed wearing bows, sunglasses, coloured ribbons and crocheted flowers around their hooves.
Did spectators attend the event?
Yes. Spectators gathered around the race, cheered for participants and took photographs using their mobile phones.
Was the event a traditional celebration?
The event was described by AP as a traditional summer donkey race in Roum village.
