Hurafuna Handicrafts Fest beckons F1 visitors

Manama : Hurafuna Handicrafts Festival was launched yesterday in the presence of Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani.

The 10-day festival held in the heart of Manama Souk – Bab Al Bahrain – aims to portray the Kingdom’s rich and diverse heritage and culture by promoting the concept of open markets and showcasing traditional handicrafts.

“The festival is launched during a season in which Bahrain welcomes guests from all over the world to come to the Kingdom and be a part of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The festival will provide visitors with a unique experience; promoting Bahrain’s tourism offering while promoting traditional handicrafts and souks,” said Minister Al Zayani.

Commenting on the event, Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, Acting Chief Executive of the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority said: “Traditional souks or open markets are a main tourist attraction due to its historical importance. It is widely known that Bahrain’s trade links started from the Souk and that is the main reason we decided to host the handicraft festival in that area.”

“During the festival, Bab Al Bahrain will be decked with lights to welcome guests and create an unforgettable experience,” he added. The festival is held under the calendar of events launched under the umbrella of ‘Manama Gulf Capital of Tourism 2016’ and it will run until
April 9. 

The Hurafuna Handicrafts Festival will showcase the local handmade goods with stalls erected in Manama Souk promoting handicrafts such as basket weaving, production of traditional musical instruments, wooden boxes and pottery.

The festival will also include live performance by traditional Bahraini bands. The event will run daily from 4pm to 10pm and it will be open to the public free of charge.