The grand festivities of Qatar National Day continued on Thursday at Katara - the Cultural Village. The events saw people turn up in large numbers as has become the custom now for many years.
A large number of activities and events of national culture and heritage has been held at Katara in co-operation with various ministries, and government and private entities since December 11. The activities and events concluded on Thursday.
By early evening, the decorated periphery of the Cultural Village was packed with people with families and children on car tops waving the Qatar flag.
Inside the Cultural Village, various activities kept Qataris and all other nationals engaged in celebrations displaying their loyalty to the nation and enjoying with a great sense of pride, and the feeling of unity.
The country's rich culture and traditions were majestically resplendent and reflected in a big way.
Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, director general, Katara, said, " Qatar National Day is when Qataris renew their love and loyalty to their beloved country, and a day for renewing the spirit of loyalty to the wise leadership; their belief in the joy of giving; and tireless work to elevate this homeland.
"It is also an opportunity for us to express with happiness and various civilised manifestations, the love for the country and the joy in its accomplishments year after year. This feeling touches the heart of everyone who lives on the land of Qatar; a feeling that reflects the renewal of the intention towards building this great nation."
The overcast and windy weather was no deterrent for visitors as the Cultural Village and its surroundings came aglow with lights, traditional music and the national dance ‘Arda’.
Small drones with lights, which appeared like lanterns, flew from over the sea waters on to the beach front area providing for a great sight.
Meanwhile, the festival-like area by the beach saw families and children making merry with a nationalistic spirit. Kids in military camouflage dresses held flags and cheered visitors.
The entire Katara, including the esplanade and amphitheatre, has been witnessing various events over the past several days including performances, workshops and fine arts exhibitions, and other cultural and recreational shows.
Wednesday was more special as people celebrated the National Day with free spirit and delight enjoying all over the cultural village.
Even as television anchors were busy with their live broadcast from Katara for national channels, people watched the proceedings on the large screens around them.
Celebrating Qatar heritage and treasures is the 'This is Qatar' show which includes several stage shows including an operetta.
To be held in two shows starting at 7pm, and 9pm it includes the following: 'Light up the fire with Fahad al Kubaisi' - where the voice of Qatar's heart will render a patriotic song as a tribute to the land with an enchanting flaming surprise; 'The story of the pearl' - where professional dancers bring the history of the pearl alive and its significance to life through a performance; 'Pearl of the Arab world Aseel Hameen' - where Aseem al Hamami will render a few traditional songs while 32 performers enact the story through dance; 'The dance of a desert' - where a vibrant contemporary dance reveals the famous desert flower and takes the audience on a journey of the wild desert; 'Melody of the sea with Ibrahim Al Dashti' - where a traditional Kuwaiti song explains the significance of the dhow boats and their heritage. (QNA)