The 15th edition of the Bejaia International Theater Festival is scheduled for October 15-23, 2026, under the patronage of the Minister of Culture and Arts. This year, the festival will feature Lebanon as the guest of honor. A special tribute will be paid to director and actor Kassem Istanbouli for his humanitarian efforts during the 2024 and 2026 conflicts, where he transformed his theaters into shelters for over 300 displaced people. The event will also mark a significant organizational change by launching an official competition featuring seven theatrical troupes from different nations. Istanbouli, a recipient of the UNESCO-Sharjah Prize, is celebrated internationally for his commitment to cultural accessibility and his dedication to using theater as a tool for peace and social support.