The first-ever Ajman Folklore Festival, themed 'Ajman...embracing history and identity', is scheduled to take place from 19 to 21 April. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of Ajman Executive Council, the event is a joint initiative involving the Ministry of Culture, Ajman Department of Tourism Development, Rewaq Ousha Bint Hussein Cultural Centre, and MTG Events Organising Company. It aims to promote cultural and heritage appreciation across the Emirate of Ajman.
The Rewaq Ousha Bint Hussein Cultural Centre hosted a press conference to announce the festival, attended by officials from the Ministry of Culture, Ajman Department of Tourism Development, festival president Dr. Mouza Ghubash, and representatives from the MTG company responsible for organising the events.
At the heart of this festival is a dedicated effort to showcase the rich heritage of Ajman, serving as a stage to display its unique cultural and artistic traditions. Such initiatives are crucial in safeguarding Emirati heritage and imparting it to the youth, strengthening the sense of national identity and fostering cultural dialogue among community members.
What To Expect At The Ajman Folklore Festival
The festival aims to highlight the importance of cultural exchange between Arab and international communities, celebrate local Emirati folklore, preserve heritage and culture from various regions, promote understanding and exchange among diverse cultures, raise awareness about the significance of folk arts in people's lives, and encourage connections between different peoples.
Moreover, the festival offers a diverse program with concerts, folkloric performances, cultural exhibitions, and workshops. You can also enjoy an art exhibition, ancient collectables display, culinary experiences, fashion shows, daily competitions, and shopping opportunities.
Day 1 Of The Festival
The festival's first day will showcase Emirati folklore with activities such as opening an art exhibition and displaying vintage collectables indoors and at external kiosks. Visitors can enjoy Emirati folk performances like Al-Ayyala and Al-Yawla, as well as participate in workshops on wicker painting and candle making. Additionally, there will be an Emirati artist's gathering and a discussion on Nabati poetry, followed by the announcement of the winners of the Nabati poem competition about Ajman.
Day 2 Of The Festival
On the festival's second day, visitors can experience captivating Arab folklore, featuring vibrant folk dance performances representing countries such as Palestine, Egypt, Iraq, Morocco and Yemen. Accompanying the performances will be the rhythmic beats of artist Muhammad Karazon, accompanied by popular songs from each nation. You can also engage in a workshop focusing on Palestinian embroidery and explore an exhibition showcasing folkloric costumes from various Arab countries tailored for adults. Additionally, there will be a competition highlighting the most exquisite folkloric costume for children, along with a captivating artistic concert by the Syrian folkloric band Takat.
Day 3 Of The Festival
During the third day of the Ajman Folklore Festival, attendees can enjoy a display of folk dances presented by various international groups, such as Circassian, Chinese, Indian, Korean and Turkish performers, among others. Visitors can also explore an exhibition featuring international folklore costumes. Additionally, there will be a workshop focused on Chinese teaching as part of the day's activities.
More details of the festival are awaited. Stay tuned!