Celebrating Culture and Community at the Abu Dhabi Festival: A Weekend of Arts and Activities Awaits
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) – As the Abu Dhabi Festival continues to bloom, Umm Al Emarat Park will transform into a vibrant hub of arts, culture, and community engagement this weekend. The festival’s centerpiece, the highly anticipated #FestivalInThePark, marks Abu Dhabi’s inaugural community-led outdoor celebration, inviting families and individuals of all ages to indulge in a rich tapestry of artistic experiences.
The two-day event promises an engaging atmosphere where budding artists, accomplished performers, and various community groups will converge to present their talents in an open-air setting. This year’s festival is particularly noteworthy as it celebrates cultural exchange, featuring international artists in conjunction with local Emirati talents, fostering a unique environment of mutual appreciation and creativity.
An Array of Activities to Enrich the Senses
Participants can expect an inclusive and diverse program brimming with stage performances, grass shows, cultural pavilions, art workshops, and interactive games. Helped by the city’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding, this cross-disciplinary event will nurture a sense of community spirit while celebrating artistic expression in its myriad forms.
A standout feature of this year’s festival is its emphasis on Japan’s rich cultural heritage, as the country of honor for the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025. Festival-goers will have the opportunity to engage with traditional Japanese art forms through various workshops designed to highlight the nuances of Japanese culture.
Hands-on Workshops and Engaging Activities
The workshops, which will take place from April 12 to 13, promise to be particularly enriching. On Saturday evening, “In the Tents” will run from 5 PM to 8:30 PM, offering engaging hands-on activities tailored for families. Participants can explore a wide range of creative skills, from making traditional tarboosh hats with Alghadeer Emirati Crafts to learning the intricate art of mosaic design with artist Sarah AlSenaani.
Unique and sustainable artistic practices will be showcased by Salim Alkaabi, complemented by workshops in manga character design led by Asma Al Remeithi. Attendees can further immerse themselves in cultural interactions by experimenting with calligraphy, origami, board games, and more.
Hala Cultures, another participant in the program, will present activities that transcend borders, such as learning to play the popular Pokémon Trading Card Game, and a variety of arts and crafts sessions led by international artists.
A Fusion of Cultures: Traditional Japanese and Emirati Performances
On the same Saturday, the “On the Grass” segment will offer a culturally enriched experience from 5:30 PM to 8 PM. Participants can enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, try on kimonos, watch a captivating karate show, and engage with roaming mascots. Adding to the atmosphere, authentic Japanese dance performances will provide an insightful window into the aesthetics and rhythmic nuances of Japan.
The festival’s evening program, “On the Stage,” promises to enchant attendees from 8 PM to 9:15 PM with a blend of cultural performances. Traditional Emirati dance will grace the stage alongside a thrilling Japanese Taiko drumming showcase by the Shoten group, which features master musicians such as James and Yuki on Taiko, shakuhachi virtuoso Kyle Helou, and koto player Mai Taniguchi.
The innovative spirit of the festival is further highlighted by VR artist Aimi Sekiguchi, who will provide a live painting and interactive art experience, showcasing the convergence of technology with traditional artistic expression.
Closing Highlights and Future Engagements
The festival will culminate on Sunday, April 13, at 8 PM, where Aimi Sekiguchi will again be in the spotlight for an interactive art experience, ensuring that the event concludes on a high note celebrating community and creativity.
As the Abu Dhabi Festival illuminates Umm Al Emarat Park with the brilliance of arts and culture, it serves as a reminder of the vital role such events play in enriching the community fabric. By bridging cultural divides and fostering creativity, the festival not only entertains but also educates and unifies.
With general park entry fees applicable, attendees are encouraged to partake in this unique blend of fun and educational experiences designed to inspire and connect individuals of all backgrounds.
Tags: #FestivalInThePark #AbuDhabi #ArtsAndCulture #CommunityEngagement