On Independence Day, Jordanians take to the streets to celebrate country's security, stability

AMMAN — Fadi Abu Jassar, a Jordanian who was participating in the Kingdom's 69th Independence Day celebrations on Monday, said what makes this year's occasion special is the country's peace and security amidst regional unrest.

"I would like to congratulate Jordanians and our beloved leader on this occasion," Abu Jassar told The Jordan Times as he was walking towards west Amman's Al Hussein Park to join the celebration. 

Jordanians from across the Kingdom flocked to the streets of the capital to celebrate the occasion. 

The public and private sectors worked together to mark the event with several companies such as Manaseer Group for Industrial and Commercial Investments and Zain Jordan holding major events in Amman. 

Manaseer organised a motorcade in the capital, with vehicles flying Jordanian flags and touring several areas in the city. 

Zain Jordan held an event at Al Hussein Park which featured several musical performances. 

Royal Jordanian Air Force planes and Public Security Department helicopters flew over the capital, while a Royal Jordanian airplane, accompanied by the Royal Jordanian Falcons performed an aerobatics show on Monday afternoon. 

Several Jordanians walked and drove from the 8th Circle towards Al Hussein Park holding flags and playing national songs. 

Fatima Attari, who was joined by her family members, was among them. 

"I came today because I wanted to pray to God to keep our country safe," she told The Jordan Times from her car. 

She also expressed hope that peace and security will prevail in the Kingdom.

Mwafaq Darweesh, who brought his four children, said he makes it a point to celebrate this occasion every year, describing it as "significant" for every Jordanian. 

"I brought my children to the Royal Automobile Museum and we toured several locations in Al Hussein Park. The occasion was a good chance for my family to celebrate and enjoy the holiday," he added. 

Muhannad Saeedi said he went out to celebrate, expressing hope that all Jordanians will always live in peace. 

"Today's events were the highlight of the occasion, ranging from musical performances to other entertaining shows," he added.

Vendors were doing brisk business on the capital's streets, selling flags and Jordanian scarves. 

"Many people bought flags to put them up on their cars. Today is good for business," said a street vendor.