The strong public participation in National Day celebrations reflects the deep sense of belonging and loyalty of Bahrain’s citizens, Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa said yesterday.
Shaikh Mohammed emphasised the role of these celebrations in strengthening national identity after inaugurating the fifth Celebrate Bahrain Festival at the Heritage Village in Ras Hayyan.
Organised by the Information Ministry, the festival is being held as part of the kingdom’s National Day celebrations.
Shaikh Mohammed was welcomed by Information Minister Dr Ramzan Al Nuaimi and senior officials.
He highlighted the significance of these events in showcasing the kingdom’s achievements as well as the tireless efforts of Bahrainis in driving progress, in line with the forward-looking vision of His Majesty King Hamad and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Shaikh Mohammed also noted its importance in educating younger generations about the kingdom’s rich history and its comprehensive future development.
He also expressed his gratitude to the personnel of the ministry and the event organisers for their efforts in ensuring the festival’s success and wished them continued success in contributing to the kingdom’s aspirations.
Shaikh Mohammed witnessed the inaugural performance by the ‘Bahrain Choir’, a national artistic project launched by the ministry to coincide with the commencement of the National Day celebrations.
The project aims to showcase the kingdom’s rich musical heritage in a distinctive and contemporary style.
Shaikh Mohammed toured the festival, where he was briefed on its features, which include cultural activities, heritage displays and traditional crafts, alongside a market showcasing a variety of local products.
The festival is being organised in co-operation with private sector partners.
Dr Al Nuaimi expressed his gratitude to Shaikh Mohammed for inaugurating the festival.
He emphasised the ministry’s commitment to hosting the festival annually in conjunction with Bahrain’s National Day celebrations.
This year’s edition runs until December 28 and focuses on providing innovative interactive experiences, along with a series of heritage workshops and training courses that enable visitors to gain hands-on experience in pottery, traditional ship-building models, palm frond weaving, inlaid chest-making and textiles.
Other activities are spread throughout the Heritage Village, including a traditional market with the participation of several shops and productive families, a children’s corner offering a variety of activities and traditional restaurants.