Joanna James
From providing opportunities for deep dives into a nation’s celebrated legacy to serving as a meeting point for creative professionals from around the world, Qatar showcases a wonderful collection of festivals that are held throughout the course of the year.
Seen as a classic representation of the relationship which subsists between the people of Qatar and its bountiful oceans, especially concerning the country’s deep-rooted ties to pearl diving; the Qatar Marine Festival held in the month of March is not to be missed. Events such as stage plays, entertainment, sports and workshops for kids with reference to painting and papermaking are but the tip of the iceberg at this festival which is organised at the Katara Cultural Village, Doha. Added to these, patrons will have the unique chance to educate themselves on the finer points of dhow building, the weaving of fishing nets and of course the timeless methods of pearl diving.
Come the month of March, the skies over Doha’s Aspire Park break out in one colourful display of kites, each boasting its own patterns and designs as part of the Aspire International Kite Festival. Held across 3 days, the mentioned festival witnesses the gathering of kite fanatics, both local and international in one fun-filled outing that also includes kitemaking workshops. Thus, you can try your hand at flying one or leave the professionals to work their magic across the bright, blue skies of the nation’s capital.
The scope of the country’s traditions and arts scene is expertly captured at the Doha Cultural Festival which is capped off with many a creative performance. Celebrated in February or March and under the patronage of members of Qatar’s royal family, the Doha Cultural Festival is best known for its poetry readings and singing which successfully bring to light the custom of storytelling. What’s more? Visitors can look forward to mesmeric art exhibitions, dance acts and musical performances that would, in turn, make for the perfect family bonding getaway when out and about in Doha.
The dhow boat is a vessel that has been transporting sailors and traders across the Indian Ocean, Red Sea and beyond for centuries. Inspired by the travels and feats of this boat, Qatar’s Katara Traditional Dhow Festival is one showpiece event where the nuances of the dhow boat can be understood and appreciated. Scheduled in December, festivalgoers can expect to be treated to as many as 70 dhow boats on display with each showcasing its own design specs. Further, a marine-themed fireworks show and art exhibitions certainly do justice to investing your time and energy at the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival.
It is a given that you will be surrounded by lively scenes when at the Souq Waqif but when it comes to organising the Souq Waqif Spring Festival, as a visitor you definitely will be getting more than what you could bargain for. An event which runs for 15 days straight, commencing from the end of December and concluding in the early part of January, Souq Waqif Spring Festival is unlike any other spring festival that you might be familiar with as pony rides, kayaking and circus shows take centre stage during this one-of-a-kind celebration. Should you be based nearby at Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments by Oaks which affords stays within hotel apartments, in Qatar such gatherings will evoke a deeper sense of admiration for a country’s culture and its hospitable citizenry.
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.
