Today's Edition
KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
Many places in the UAE and the capital Abu Dhabi have kicked off winter festivities in conjunction with private malls and government bodies such as Experience Abu Dhabi, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Sports Council. With Christmas approaching fast, Santa Claus is coming to a few experiences early. Here are some options to ring in the cheer with the school break coming up:
Sheikh Zayed Festival
The highlight of the season which goes until the end of the winter is Sheikh Zayed Festival, which is currently on and vowed the audience recently during the Union Day weekend. Being held in Al Wathba region until March 9, this year’s edition spans 112 days.
Festival favourites such as the Heritage Village highlight local art and culture, focusing on traditional industries and crafts. Other highlights include a rare species reserve, Al Wathba Custom Show, Children’s City, Fun Fair City, Glow Flower Garden, House of Fear; an art district; and various competitions and draws. Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy the Emirates Fountain and its special dancing water fountain shows, augmented by eye-pleasing laser shows and 3D hologram shows. More than 50 food concepts, featuring cuisine and street food from around the world, are also on offer.
Warner Bros
The Winter Spectacular at Warner Bros. Abu Dhabi features holiday shows, character meet and greets, and festive performances from December 8 to January 7 next year for family-friendly experiences that embody the holiday spirit.
The famous Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, along with 50 international singers, dancers and acrobats, have been lined up in what is claimed by Warner Bros. as their most extensive theatrical production. “The NutQuacker” will feature a live performance from Lola Bunny, Tweety, Sylvester, Taz and Tom and Jerry as they put a unique spin on the classic Nutcracker ballet with heartwarming moments.
Complementing the breathtaking spectacle, guests will also get to witness immersive projection mapping, special effects, and a selection of the most festive popular music, including the original song ‘Let it Shine’, produced exclusively for the show.
Guests can visit Cartoon Junction to snap photos with Scooby-Doo & The Mystery Inc. gang, all dressed in their festive winter attire and ready to solve all the mysteries. For those wanting to shake a leg or two, there is the Daffy Holiday Dance Party. And The Flintstones will be all dressed up and ready to meet guests to show them how to celebrate this winter season in an authentic Stone Age fashion.
Al Maryah Island
The Galleria mall at Al Maryah Island has set up Winter Wonderland from Thursday to December 26. Visitors can start with greetings from elves and thematic decorations at Santa’s Grotto, from 10am to 10pm, where a donation of Dh10 is applicable. All proceeds will be sent to relief efforts in Gaza through a charitable partnership.
A 12-metre tree, live and interactive baking experiences and letting children to write a letter to Santa will be available at various places inside the mall. Starting Sunday to December 20, there will be a 12-day giveaway period where public can involve on their social media channels for a chance to win prizes. From December 14 in the South Plaza, more activities, entertainment, live shows and games for guests of all ages will be introduced.
Deerfields Mall
Those on the outskirts of the city can head to Shahama’s Deerfields Mall, where there is a winter market, among the highlights. Starting from 5pm everyday, it runs through December 31 with local vendors and food trucks in abundance. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the mall, where every Dh200 spent puts visitors into a raffle draw for a Nissan Patrol car.
Yas Winter Fest
Yas Winter Fest is running an extended week of celebrations after the Union Day until this Sunday. The festive run will feature an (artificial) snow park, a daily tree lighting ceremony and a line-up of festive stage shows. Thrilling carnival rides, a snowball fight zone and snow slides will also be there. The hosts promise non-stop entertainment, including mini-musicals, sing-alongs, magicians, Christmas choirs and more. Kids can keep busy in the mega kids’ zone and Santa’s Workshop, while adults can enjoy shopping and savour classic winter treats. It is a ticketed event, with Dh25 for adults and Dh15 for children between 4-12.
Snow Abu Dhabi at Reem Mall
Open all year round, it is among the world’s largest indoor snow parks with 20 rides and attractions, including the Crystal Carousel, Polar Express Train, Flight of the Snowy Owl, Snowflake Garden, and Enchanted Tree. For this period, step in to meet Santa, drink hot cocoa, go down some slides and get a special gift made by elves. Ticket: Dh150 (meet Santa package); Dh295 (snow park & meet Santa package).
Liwa Village
After its successful debut last year by DCT Abu Dhabi, Liwa Village experience will return from December 8-31, bringing the most unmissable attractions, talents, events, and winter vibes to the heart of the desert.
Divided into several distinct zones, and with a fresh new look, this 24-day celebration combines the adventure of the outdoors with the best F&B, retail and entertainment. The mini-oasis city weaves together authentic Emirati heritage, modern leisure and activities, the finest culinary options, and locally renowned celebrities and artists to provide a well-rounded winter experience for nationals, expatriates, and tourists alike.
Set to offer a slice of delight for everyone, Liwa Village will spiral to seven main zones – Main stage, Souk, Oasis, Valley, Pavillion, Carnival, and a PUBG digital station. Performances have been lined up for each weekend, with a headline act on New Year’s Eve and a series of breathtaking fireworks will mark the end of the programme.
Spartan World Championship
This year’s Abu Dhabi Spartan World Championship will take place over this weekend as thousands of athletes prepare to compete in the world’s leading endurance challenge over the course of a gruelling and intense three-day period. Check their website for any last-minute thoughts of entering in certain categories. Al Wathba plays host to the event until Sunday with various race options, including the Open Heats for all regardless of ability to take part.
The event wants participants to push their bodies to the limit in a true test of strength, endurance and speed. Those participating also get a free ticket entry on Friday and Saturday to the Sheikh Zayed Festival.
