Stage set today for Heritage Festival at Souq Al Baraha

TDT | Manama                                                 

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com     

Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the annual Heritage Festival, in its 29th edition, will kick off today at 9pm and run until April 8 at Souq Al Baraha in Diyar Al Muharraq.

It is organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), and supported by Souq Al Baraha. Themed “Ramadan Traditions”, this year’s edition highlights customs related to the holy month of Ramadan and which are considered integral to Bahraini identity.

This will pave the way for visitors to learn about the authentic traditions formed by the local community and related to the holy month, through a varied lineup of entertainment activities.

The 29th Heritage Festival will be open to the public from 9pm to midnight, and will feature a varied programme, including musical performances by folklore bands, face painting, traditional games, Hazawi (folk tales) and tasting experiences of many Ramadan foods, among many others.

Through this programme, BACA seeks to shed light on Ramadan customs, such as Gurgaon, family gatherings, El Misaharaty (Ramadan drummer), folk games, Iftar cannon, Ramadan Sufra (table or cloth for serving food) and popular food.

The festival aims to emphasise the authenticity of these Ramadan customs and their connection with the identity, culture and heritage of the Kingdom. Bahrainis are keen to adhere to these traditions and pass them from one generation to another, despite the changes that occurred in the contemporary lifestyle.