Bahrain’s beloved capital city will come to life tomorrow as part of a nostalgic festival celebrating Manama’s history, and the special place it has in everyone’s hearts.
Hawa Al Manama – meaning ‘love of Manama’ in Arabic – is the second edition of last year’s mega-popular Manama Retro, organised by Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA).
The festivities have tripled in size since last year, according to BTEA chief executive Sarah Buhiji, and the authority aims to attract 300,000 visitors during the 20-day programme.
Running until January 15, events take place from 5pm to 10pm on weekdays, and 5pm to midnight on weekends.
Slogans used for the festival’s marketing campaign, which ring true for lovers of the old city, include ‘Manama’s Good for the Soul’, ‘Smile, You’re in Manama’, and ‘Back to Golden Days’.
“When you take a walk in Hawa Al Manama, you’re walking down memory lane to the 70s, 80s and 90s, remembering the olden days, and the history of the Manama Suq,” Ms Buhiji told the GDN during the pre-launch media tour yesterday.
“This year, there is a greater focus to accommodate all age groups, and to make it an event perfect for the Khaleeji (Gulf) and Bahraini family.
“There will be 250 Bahraini youths organising the event, and more than 300 Bahraini-owned shops and businesses will be participating.
“More than 3,000 parking spots are available for visitors, as well as two locations for valet parking.”
The festival features dedicated areas for traditional food and local crafts, as well as a sweet-making event showcasing authentic Bahraini flavours and Manama’s rich culinary heritage.
Traditional games, carnivals, cultural and historical showcases, traditional shops, antique stores, shopping experiences will also be part of Hawa Al Manama.
Among the attractions are art and light installations, an escape room, basketball matches, interactive exhibitions and an art space for workshops, a time capsule maze, vintage clothing shops and antiques market, a Bahraini sweets museum and Al Fareej orchestra theatre.
BTEA deputy chief executive Dana Al Saad added that a Halwa Showaiter factory will be open to visitors near Bab Al Bahrain.
The festival map spans several locations across Al Khalifa Avenue, Tijjar Avenue, Al Tawawish Square and key buildings such as the Bank Building, Batelco Centre, Yateem Centre, Al Zainah Plaza and Kanoo Museum.
Key heritage structures such as the Fakhro House, Ahmadi House and the Oriental Hotel Square will be incorporated into the programming to reinforce the suq’s connection to its architectural legacy.
A pedestrian bridge linking Bahrain Financial Harbour to Manama will enhance access points. To further enhance convenience, shuttle buses will operate between key locations, and special golf carts will be available for individuals with special needs.
Temporary facilities, including portable toilets and dedicated maintenance services, will be installed across participating malls to accommodate the increased visitor flow. Additionally, a designated prayer area will be provided for guests.
Campaigns promoting the event reportedly appeared across GCC airports and through Bahrain’s five international tourism promotion offices in the UK, India, China, France and Germany.
The GDN earlier reported that New Year’s Eve fireworks will take place in the heart of Manama, according to BTEA head of tourism relations Reem Tawfiqi. She noted that only five days overlap with Muharraq Nights.
“With an expanded programme, enhanced infrastructure and strong institutional backing, Hawa Al Manama is set to deliver a renewed experience that captures the essence of Manama’s storied suq – where history, culture and modern creativity meet in the heart of the capital,” Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah stated.
For more details, follow @hawa_almanama on Instagram.
- For other Celebrate Bahrain events, follow @calendar.bh on social media, visit www.bahrain.com, or access the BTEA app.
zainab@gdnmedia.bh
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