Eid extravaganza: Circus, concerts, fireworks...

Sneak a peek into Dubai’s Eid Al Fitr extravaganza and it just may be advisable to slip into those comfy shoes for the 72-hours of planned festivities.

Star-studded concerts, live entertainment acts and, of course, everyone’s favourite fireworks display will tee off the loaded calendar of events organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).

Adopting the theme, ‘United in Celebration’, this year’s festivities will also offer residents a rare opportunity to experience rich Arabic customs, sample its scrumptious cuisine and partake in cultural activities through family-oriented social and entertainment events.

Now in its eight year, ‘Eid in Dubai’ will run until July 22.

In a statement, the Media Centre of DFRE, said: “‘Eid in Dubai’ brings together families and individuals of all ages, nationalities and cultures together as they revel in the celebrations in every nook and corner of the emirate.”

So what’s in store you ask? Here’s a packed calendar that’s just the ticket for the Eid weekend:

Layali Dubai Concerts

July 19-20, Sheikh Rashid Hall, DWTC

Renowned music artists from the Arab World will converge in Dubai this Eid, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy an amazing entertainment experience.

Enjoy some of the lilting melodies of Arabia, and get a close glimpse of top Arabian entertainers, at the Layali Dubai concerts at the DWTC.

Rabeh Saqr and Balqees will perform on July 19, while Ahlam and Majid Muhandis will take to the stage on July 20.

Eid Fireworks

From the first until the third day of Eid, the night sky will come alive with some of the best pyrotechnics staged by world-renowned experts at The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence.

Fireworks at The Beach will commence at 8.30pm during the three days of Eid Al Fitr.

Modhesh World

Until August 29, DWTC, Hall 1-8

Modhesh World will be the main destination to go to during the five days of Eid celebrations in Dubai.

Hosted by Modhesh, the ever-smiling mascot, the themed family indoor edutainment destination will celebrate its biggest ever edition in its history, over 34,000sqm at DWTC and featuring the largest number of attractions at an indoor entertainment destination of its kind in the region.

During Eid in Dubai, families and children can expect special stage shows and parades at Modhesh World.

With its theme, ‘Every step is a new adventure’,  families can enjoy  numerous attractions including Fly Jump, Mirror Maze, X-Rider, The Slide and Valkyrie, international characters and interactive learning opportunities for children.

The Magical Box Ballerina

Ibn Battuta Mall, 1st-3rd day of Eid

This spectacular show tells the story of a soldier who falls in love with a toy ballerina with the performance featuring professional ballet dancers weaving this classic tale.

Combining ballet techniques and adding a modern twist by using contemporary choreography and music, creating this fusion of performances giving the guests an eye-opening show to remember.

Daffy Duck and Taz in ‘What Stole My Chicken?’ makes its World Premiere at Mall of the Emirates.  A stage show specially produced and written for audiences in Dubai, features the loveable characters from Looney Tunes.

The mall will host three shows per day, each of 20 minutes duration, while there will be workshops with a Daffy Duck zone, a ‘chill out’ area for watching Daffy cartoons, Daffy template colouring for the kids, Daffy beak and mask making, and more.

Each show will be followed by a Meet and Greet session with one of the characters. Show timing: Weekdays: 6.30pm, 7.30pm, 8.30pm; Weekend: 5pm, 6.30pm, 8.30pm

Circus Fiesta

Mercato Mall, 1st day of Eid

The Fiesta showcases daily, live circus shows featuring the glitz of the African Circus.

Nearly 36 acrobats will perform breathtaking feats. Other acts to watch out for include the Color Circus: a comic version of the real deal; Kids European Circus: little performers from the circus school entertain with a dazzling act and mind-blowing choreography; Kids Circus Workshops: learn the ropes and get ready to see the act up and close like never before.

Meet and greet events, face painting and acrobatics workshops and roaming artistes also around.

Eid Toy Carnival

Participating stores, July 18-22

A new ‘Eid in Dubai’ initiative, this promotion will create a festive ambience for children during the celebrations.

The campaign will highlight the period of gifting with Eid decorations, promotions, offers, meet-and-greet sessions, give-aways, instant winnings and fun activities.

Eidiyat Dubai Promotion

Since July 1, participating malls has joined hands with the Dubai Shopping Malls Group to run a special Eid promotion until the last day of Eid, offering shoppers who spend Dh200 the chance to win cash prizes totalling Dh1.5 million.

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