The National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL) inaugurated the 17th Summer Cultural Festival today, Wednesday, with a musical performance at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, featuring a selection of songs by renowned artist Fadl Shaker.

During the opening ceremony at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Hall, Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of NCCAL, stated that the 17th edition of the festival reflects the Council’s commitment to "enriching the mind, nurturing the soul, and strengthening the presence of culture in daily life."

Al-Jassar added that this annual event has become, thanks to strong public engagement, "a shining milestone in Kuwait’s cultural landscape and a steadfast platform uniting artists, creators, and seekers of beauty and art."

He emphasized that NCCAL believes culture is a shared responsibility, praising the constructive cooperation with the private sector, which plays a vital role in enriching the intellectual scene and ensuring the festival’s success.

The partnership between NCCAL, institutions, and individuals has helped expand cultural outreach and bring artistic activities closer to the public. Al-Jassar noted that this public-private collaboration is a strategic approach to building a dynamic, evolving cultural society—one that honors its heritage while embracing future horizons.

This year’s festival features diverse activities celebrating Arab identity and Kuwait’s artistic heritage, including family and children’s events, as well as specialized literary and artistic workshops over seven weeks. All cultural centers, museums, and venues will contribute to the festival’s programs.

Al-Jassar stressed that the festival is "not just a seasonal cultural event but a living expression of NCCAL’s belief that culture is a field for all—a bridge between generations and a window to human creativity." He thanked everyone involved in making this edition a success, as well as the esteemed attendees who embody its mission.

The Concert & Honoring the Artists
Hosted by media personality Hashem Asad, the opening ceremony featured performances by artists Mohammed Fadl Shaker and Raneen Al-Shaar, conducted by Maestro Michael Ibrahim, presenting a collection of Fadl Shaker’s iconic songs.

NCCAL honored the participating band and artists in recognition of their contributions to the festival’s success.