The fifth edition of the Date Palm Festival kicked off yesterday, paying homage to Bahrain’s heritage as the ‘land of a million palm trees’.
Around 60 farmers are taking part in the three-day event, which will run until tomorrow from 8am to 5pm at the Farmers’ Market in Hoorat A’Ali.
“The date palm is a symbol of Bahrain and it is crucial to encourage and support all farmers, as well as anyone working with palm trees,” National Initiative for Agriculture Development (NIAD) secretary-general Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa told the GDN.
“This includes those who make dates-related products like sweets, ice creams, pickles and frond-weaved baskets.
A farmer presents some of his fresh dates to the dignitaries including Ms Al Qais, second from left, Shaikha Maram, third from right, Ms Mofeez, second from right, and Mr Al Mubarak, right. Picture: Hussain Almosawi
“In addition to showcasing products, the festival aims to teach and raise awareness about the sector. There is plenty of expertise here, so people can ask questions and speak to farmers to learn about Bahraini dates, while discovering this hidden gem of a market.”
The opening was attended by Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak, Tamkeen chief executive Maha Mofeez, Bahrain Development Bank chief executive Dalal Al Qais and Shaikha Maram.
The festival also aims to showcase the permanent Farmers’ Market, which remains open year-round and offers residents, citizens and visitors a chance to buy produce and local products directly from entrepreneurs.
From left, Shaikha Maram, Mr Al Mubarak, Ms Mofeez and Ms Al Qais admire the products at the festival. Picture: Hussain Almosawi
“A total of 60 participants are showcasing their products at this year’s festival,” Ms Al Qais explained.
“The event has been getting more and more successful every year because of its impact on farmers and their families, as it highlights our dates and products locally and regionally.”
In addition to date palm farmers, the festival is highlighting small businesses that are integrating parts of the tree into their products and educating young children about the craft.
“I’ve been fascinated by palm trees from a young age when I used to watch my mother who was dedicated to traditional crafts such as weaving with palm tree branches, and now I am instilling the same love into my 10-year-old son,” palm tree farmer and weaver Mahdi Albasri, 40, explained during a break from running weaving workshops for young visitors.
Mahdi Albasri, centre, with his son Redha, left, and brother Hasan, right, showcasing flower shapes being integrated into their designs. Picture: Hussain Almosawi
“As I improved, I started improvising, and now I like to incorporate flower shapes in my designs as well as paint my crafts in silver, for example, to make them stand out.
“I try to participate in as many events as possible and I also like to teach the craft because it is a small field with a few experts.”
Mr Mahdi Albasri’s brother Hasan, who has been in the art field for 16 years, added that he was hoping to highlight face sculptures using palm tree trunks this year.
Mr Hasan Albasri with one of his new face sculptures made from palm tree trunks. Picture: Hussain Almosawi
“I specialise in creating sculptures and figures for educational projects,” he explained.
“I participate in the Farmers’ Market usually to teach children how to sculpt and paint, this year I had the idea of creating face sculptures using palm tree trunks.
“I think it is important to teach children art because creativity gives the child a wide imagination, which eventually brings about a sense of taste and independence.”
According to date farmer Mirza Hassan, the festival helps highlight multiple Bahraini varieties including Khalas, Khawaja, Gharrah and Merziban, especially amongst families and expatriates visiting the market.
Mr Hassan showcases varieties of dates. Picture: Hussain Almosawi
“I love how this festival celebrates our culture and crafts, and highlights the benefits of every part of the palm tree,” mother-of-four Batool Ali added.
Three young date lovers at the festival. Picture: Hussain Almosawi
“I like to come with my daughters to look around and see the new products every year. My children enjoy the activities that the festival provides as well as browsing around with me.”
Face-painting at the event. Picture: Hussain Almosawi
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