Ministry of Culture postpones Baghdad International Theater Festival scheduled Oct. 10–17, 2026

The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities on Thursday announced the postponement of the seventh edition of the Baghdad International Theater Festival, titled "Veteran Artist Raed Mohsen," which had been scheduled to be held in Baghdad from Oct. 10 to 17, 2026, due to the financial and economic conditions the country is experiencing.

The ministry said in a statement that the decision to postpone came after consultations with the relevant bodies in the Cinema and Theater Directorate, and in light of the difficulties involved in securing the requirements for holding the festival and its artistic program.

The ministry affirmed that "postponement does not mean cancellation of the festival," noting that the new date for holding it will be set in light of developments and available capabilities and will be announced officially in due course.

The Baghdad International Theater Festival is considered one of the capital’s most prominent theatrical events, bringing together Iraqi, Arab and international theatrical productions and experiences, and contributing to strengthening the theatrical scene and cultural and artistic exchange between Iraq and countries around the world.