Doha, Qatar: Lusail plaza in Lusail City hosted the Garangao Night event, organized by the "Hour by Hour" program under the slogan "Our Identity in Our Heritage," in cooperation with Qatari Diar real estate investment company and Al Sailiya Sports Club.
The event witnessed a large public attendance and wide interaction from families and children who enjoyed the traditional and interactive atmosphere.
Event program
The evening began with a performance of "Garangao Chants" by students from Maimouna primary school for girls, after which students from Qatar Academy - Sidra took the audience through a theatrical scene inspired by the story "Kingdom of Garangao" by Qatari writer Asma Al Kuwari.
The children excelled in presenting a heritage-inspired performance in an entertaining narrative style.
The audience also enjoyed traditional performances by students from Khawla Bint Alazwar primary school for girls, before attention turned to the cultural competition "Think and Answer," presented by media personality Ibrahim Al-Jufairi and student Maitha Al-Yafei, which added a spirit of enthusiasm among the audience.
Children had an appointment with their favorite characters from the "Siraj" series.
Students from Maimouna primary school for girls also presented "The Little Broadcaster" show and puppet theater, which created an atmosphere full of fun and entertainment.
Accompanying activities reflecting Qatari heritage
In addition to theatrical performances, visitors enjoyed a variety of accompanying activities that ranged between art, crafts, and popular heritage, including the Qatari tent and the "Hezwai" (storytelling) segment supervised by Amina Al-Badr, which revived traditional narrative arts.
There was also a folk food segment led by Chef Lulwa Al-Dosari, which offered visitors a taste experience of traditional Qatari dishes, folk band performances, traditional games, falconry and pony rides that attracted the interest of families and children, and an art and manuscript exhibition organized by Gallery 38 Katara, where heritage-inspired artworks were displayed.
The event also included interactive workshops for children and youth, including painting on pottery, pencil drawing, writing on bags and wood, drawing and coloring on Garangao boxes, and a paper folding workshop "Ramadan Lantern" organized by Maimouna primary school, in addition to traditional games and a drawing workshop organized by Al Khansaa primary school.
The technical secondary school for girls organized a collection of creative workshops such as "Race of Goodness," "Ramadan Feather," and "Garangao Bag made with our hands."
There was also an art exhibition for works by people with special needs, which showcased the creativity of participants in various artistic fields, and Qatari handicrafts such as sewing, bisht weaving, tawoosh making, gargoor (fish trap) making, grindstone making, and perfume making with the participation of Dhabia Al-Hamidi, Ilham Al-Ansari Boutique, and Salem Bisht shops.
The event presented a variety of entertainment activities for children organized by Aurora Megapolis Kids Mondo, in addition to Chuck E. Cheese characters that added a fun atmosphere.
For its part, the Youth Council and the Youth Agency of Al-Sailiya Sports Club participated in the event by organizing interactive segments that included fun games and competitions.
The Primary Care Foundation presented a health awareness segment with health guidelines on eating habits and physical activity.
Speaking about the event, Tamani Al-Yafei, CEO of the "Hour by Hour" program, confirmed that "Garangao Night is a celebration of the spirit of Qatari heritage, and aims to establish national identity in the souls of future generations through interactive activities that combine fun and education.”
She added: "Through this event, we seek to provide a rich cultural experience that reflects authentic Qatari values in a manner suitable for children and families."
She added: "This year, we were keen to present a comprehensive and renewed program that integrates folk arts, traditional crafts, and interactive activities, making Garangao Night an unforgettable experience for the attendees."
For his part, the president of Al Sailiya Club, Dr. Mohammed Ali Al Marri, confirmed that the club is keen to organize events that contribute to enhancing national identity and preserving Qatari heritage, pointing out that heritage is not just a past, but a living spirit that we live and work to pass on to new generations.
From her side, Azlaa Al-Qahtani, Head of Culture and Identity in Pre-University Education, confirmed that celebrating Garangao is a special day awaited by young and old alike, characterized by its traditional and social character where children wear the most beautiful traditional clothing and brightest jewelry and that the celebration enhances national identity, preserves popular heritage, and reflects Qatari culture.
An unforgettable night
The event received wide interaction from attendees from all segments of society, where visitors expressed their happiness with the festive atmosphere that revived Qatari traditions in an innovative style that combines authenticity and modernity.
The evening concluded with the distribution of Garangao treats to children, in a gesture that reflects the spirit of giving and community connection for this special occasion.
