If you are still craving ways to enjoy and celebrate Diwali festivities, or looking for some authentic, colourful and lively Indian experiences, then there is good news for you this weekend. Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is celebrating the festival of lights at the Yas Mega Mela from 31 October to 2 November at the du Arena. The three-day festival offers visitors the best of Indian music, food, entertainment, Chefs’ Theatre, a firework extravaganza and power packed performances by Bollywood singers. That’s not all, there will be health and beauty masterclasses, cricket coaching and challenges, and a dedicated kids’ zone, and much more.
The best bit is you can enjoy all this and much more for just Dhs 20 entry and kids under the age of 16 go free.
Here’s a guide to the Yas Mega Mela, so you do not miss a single fun thing that is happening this weekend:
Live Music and Dance
Kanika Kapoor, the voice behind some of Bollywood’s biggest hits 'Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan', 'Baby Doll' and 'Jugni Ji', will entertain the audience at the Yas Mega Mela on Thursday, 31 October.
On Friday, 1 November award-winning singer, Ankit Tiwari will have the audience on its feet to his musical hits including 'Sun Raha Hai' and 'Galliyan'.
On Saturday, 2 November, Fahmil Khan, the UAE-based engineer-turned-vocalist and guitarist, will play pop, Sufi, retro and contemporary Bollywood songs.
Throughout the three-day festival there will be authentic ‘bhangra’ performances from Pure Bhangra - the most happening ‘bhangra’ crew in Dubai - plus international DJ Shadab playing Bollywood remixes on the decks.
Celebrity Chefs’ Kitchen
At the Chefs’ Kitchen, you'll get the opportunity to attend live cooking demonstrations where local and international celebrity chefs will create scrumptious dishes and share their secrets and techniques. The lineup includes Chef Vicky Ratnani, legendary celebrity chef and self-proclaimed gastronomic junkie, Chef Sandeep Sreedharan, one of the most sought-after chefs in Mumbai, and Chef Sanjay Thakur, a Guinness World Record holder for creating and serving dinner to guests at the highest pop-up restaurant in the world, located at Everest Advanced High Camp.
Fireworks Extravaganza Every Night
Each evening, an intense and vibrant fireworks display will light up the night sky over du Arena and Yas Island to celebrate the season of the festival of lights. Don’t miss out on what is set to be the biggest firework display Abu Dhabi has ever seen.
Taste India Experience
Yas Mega Mela will feature authentic culinary experiences, from fine dining restaurants to an array of food and drink stalls serving the best of Indian food and international cuisines, offering an opportunity to explore unique flavours from all over India and the world. You’ll be able to taste famous Indian street food as well as discover authentic Indian cuisine with intricately prepared dishes with the perfect mix of spices. Confirmed restaurants include Zaika; Kura Kura; Paprika; Indian by nature; Bikanerwala; Sandwich Square and Kulifilicious.
Shopping Bazaar
Featuring authentic market stalls by local and international artisans, the Shopping Bazaar will provide you with an authentic shopping experience jam-packed with a variety of Indian and international fashion, accessories, jewellery, homeware, spices and many more.
Health & Beauty Masterclasses
From makeup masterclasses, massages, skin consultations, as well as the latest trends and products across haircare, skincare, you will find the best of beauty secrets and products at the Yas Mega Mela.
Cricket Academy - Coaching & Challenges
Young cricket enthusiasts will be able to participate in cricket coaching sessions and masterclasses, learn new batting and bowling skills from experts and play friendly matches in an enjoyable, safe and friendly environment. Do you know someone who has what it takes to be the fastest bowler at the Yas Mega Mela?
Kids’ Zone
If you’re looking to treat the little ones to an experience filled with fun rides and carnival excitement, head to the Kids’ Zone. You can expect everything from a merry-go-round, carnival games and swings, a carousel, jumping castles, henna, arts and crafts including creating your own bangles and Diya lights and many more fun activities.
Tickets are on sale now www.yasmegamela.ae with standard tickets starting from Dhs 20. VIP tickets are also available providing exclusive access to the VIP lounge and two drinks vouchers starting from Dhs 75.
Timings:
- Thursday 31 October - 4pm to 11pm
- Friday 1 November - 2pm to 11pm
- Saturday 2 November - 2pm to 10pm