Al Hosn Festival, Abu Dhabi’s premier annual celebration of the emirate’s cultural heritage, is in its third edition for ten days at the iconic Al Hosn site from 13th to 22nd January.
Spanning Al Hosn’s historic buildings and outdoor areas, the event will showcase the best of Abu Dhabi’s traditional heritage and the breadth of its creativity.
Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – DCT Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the festival promises a range of exciting activities for visitors of all ages, including musical and cultural performances, film screenings, art installations, craft and design showcases, Creative workshops, pop-up stores and various culinary experiences.
Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Every year, Al Hosn Festival tells the story of Abu Dhabi where it all began. As an important part of our cultural calendar, The event celebrates Abu Dhabi’s traditions and crafts and connects them to the emirate’s contemporary art practices. The festival has quickly become a focal point for inspiration and exchange across the emirate’s cultural ecosystem, as well as DCT Abu Dhabi’s drive to preserve the emirate’s valuable heritage and support and key elements in developing a new generation of artists and creative practitioners.”
Events will span the expansive Al Hosn site, with Qasr Al Hosn taking visitors back in time, giving them a glimpse into what life in Abu Dhabi was like in decades past. Guests will enjoy live demonstrations of Emirati craftsmanship and craftsmanship at the Artisan House, where they can also participate in creative workshops and witness competitions highlighting Emirati cultural excellence.
Likewise, the Cultural Foundation will once again offer a program of engaging and thought-provoking art exhibitions, performances by local musical talent, film screenings, interactive installations and workshops.
The festival’s Maker Village will return, featuring unique items created by artists and designers at local and regional concept stores. There will also be fashion brands to peruse, as well as plenty of mouth-watering food outlets.
Al Hosn Festival provides a platform for cultural experimentation and exchange in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s growing urban landscape, while still being rooted in the authentic traditions of the emirate. The event is in line with DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision and mandate to protect, preserve and promote the emirate’s heritage, showcase Abu Dhabi as a cultural destination and provide a platform for artistic experimentation and public engagement.
Al Hosn is the original neighborhood of the city, including the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort, the Cultural Foundation, the National Advisory Council Building and the Artisans’ House. Al Hosn is a symbol of the UAE’s proud cultural heritage, bringing to life its rich history, people and traditions, and highlighting the city’s future ambitions. – trade arab news agency