One of the joys of living in Abu Dhabi is getting to learn more about the UAE’s traditions, culture and heritage.
Embodying these values, Qasr Al Hosn will showcase the heritage of the UAE once again this December with the launch of the Al Hosn Festival.
Taking place from December 12 to 19, a year after the historic site reopened to the public, the festival will include a range of workshops, performances and attractions.
Over eight days you will be able to explore different parts of Qasr Al Hosn including the historic fort, The Cultural Foundation and The House of Artisans.
Each will provide a unique experience for visitors and help to bring the UAE’s history life and share the traditions and practices of the Emirati people with a new generation.
Qasr Al Hosn will transform into a living museum where you can see men, women and children re-enact daily routines of people who lived and worked at the palace in the past century.
The House of Artisans will host a range of workshops based around traditional handicrafts including burqa design, printmaking and more as well as showcasing traditional performances including Ayyala, Al Razfa, and Al Naham.
Three new immersive art commissions will also be unveiled during the festival including Emirati artist Mohammed Kazem’s Directions From Place to Place, Korean artist Jeongmoon Choi’s Drawing in Space; and The Bean Bag by artist collective XPOZE.
Outdoor film screenings will also take place from Cinema Akil and more, musical performances from bands including Jadal, dance performances from Che Malambo, art and design workshops, a children’s area food and retail stands will also be set up throughout Qasr Al Hosn.
“We are very pleased to announce the addition of this new flagship festival to Abu Dhabi’s year-round calendar of entertainment and cultural events,” said HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.
“Al Hosn Festival will showcase Abu Dhabi’s vibrant heritage and contemporary creativity, offering the community and visitors to the emirate an enriching experience that reflects the diversity of our cultural scene.
“The festival has been designed with a creative programme that will activate all the elements of Al Hosn site, across the different moments of our history, reflecting on the traditions of the past, the creative present and our innovative ambitions.
“Al Hosn Festival will offer inspiring moments for each of our visitors across a varied range of activities, and we look forward to the Abu Dhabi community creating lasting memories with family and friends.”
It sounds like an immersive and intriguing celebration and we look forward to visiting once it opens in December.
Dhs30 (Adults), Dhs15 (children from five to 12). Dec 12-19. www.alhosn.ae
