Joanna James
Oman is a country that's steeped in the rich culture and has a history that spans back centuries. Naturally, there are many fascinating festivals to celebrate these qualities and you might be lucky enough to experience them if you vacation here. These are the 5 most unique festivals in Oman.
The Muscat Festival is one of the most celebrated and glamorous festivals in Oman. It features several Omani great works of art that represent the region's rich culture and legacy. This festival is actually a month-long festival. If you're staying at a resort or a luxury hotel Muscat has to offer, like the Al Falaj Hotel, you'd start to see changes all around the city as the month of celebration starts. The goal of the Muscat Festival is to preserve the ancient traditions, practices, and rituals that are unique to Oman. As such, an array of events is held in their honor. These include theatre exhibitions, carnivals, gymnastics shows, and even thrilling camel races. During festival nights, the skies are alive with fireworks and the distant roaring of crackers. It is truly a magical time to be in Oman and you should definitely try to visit during the festival if possible.
During the period known as the 'Khareef', massive rainstorms are a common occurrence in Oman. It is also during this time that the region celebrates the Salalah Tourism Festival. The constant showers transform what is normally desert into lush meadows that are graced with cool winds and pleasant weather. The festival itself has a number of showings that are meant to appeal to a truly global audience. Musical performances, lavish banquets, and rowdy carnivals are commonplace during this festival, transforming the city into a place of pleasure and celebration.
A majority of Oman's populations are Muslims and therefore Islam plays a key part in the country's culture. As such, Ramadhan and the holy month of Eid are some of the most important and culturally significant periods in the country. Omani people follow several customs during this period. These include earing new garments, sending cards to relatives, gifting items to young children, and preparing food items for massive feasts.
Eid Al Adha takes place exactly 70 days after the conclusion of Ramadhan. Know as the "Festival of Sacrifice", it celebrates the sacrifice Abraham made at the command of God. This festival usually takes place at the end of the pilgrimage season to Mecca.
The Sultan Camel Race Cup celebrates one of the most popular and enduring sports of Oman – camel racing. This event takes place at a famous vacation spot, so chances are you'll be right by to catch all the sights! Here the course is specifically designed for camels to race through and these beasts have been specifically trained to compete in this fascinating sport. The event itself usually goes on for at least 3 days and is attended by the King of Oman himself.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
