Things to do this Qatar National Day

Hundreds of visitors joined in on the Qatar National Day celebrations at Darb Al Saai in Al Sadd, the main venue of the celebrations this year.

Apart from the fireworks that happens on a daily basis, organizers have planned several activities for children and other cultural learning experiences.

The main attraction this year is the shooting competition that has drawn crowds of all ages. This attraction is expected to continue throughout the celebrations at the venue, he added.

The competition is held for four categories — regular shooting at targets, shooting moving targets, electronic shooting and a bow and arrow shooting. The competition is held separately for male and females.

The final of the shooting competition will be held on December 15 for the males and December 16 for females.

The children's play area is also a big attraction, with some 20 games in the sandy area to ensure kids' safety. Some have been prepared as simulation of heritage games.

The natural protected area, Al Meshabia, allows visitors to look closely at flora and fauna. It's also meant to be a recreational and educational activity for children, highlighting  the importance of preserving and protecting Qatar’s environment.

At Darb Al Saai, a visitor can check out the various stalls selling traditional foods and featuring several aspects of Qatar's culture and heritage. You may also check out some of Qatar's popular animals and birds on display - horses, camels, oryxes and falcons.

You may also catch a glimpse of the traditional sword dance at the heritage tent.

The ladies may also visit the Henna stage and see how some of the Qatari folks decorate hands and legs with this herbal mixture.

Check out the traditional activities at Al Beda that aims to familiarize people with the maritime heritage in the context of a mini social environment that gives an overview of the ancient features of Fareej and its social environment where pictures show intimacy and compassion.

Qatar National Day celebrations are not limited to the venue at Al Sadd.

Head over to the West End Park in the Industrial Area that is hosting thousands of expat workers and families for national day celebrations.

On December 18th, the open theatre will feature festivities, entertainment shows and fun-filled activities by Indian and Sri Lankan community groups and school students.

On the Corniche you'll find the biggest of the annual celebrations with a National Day Parade. Last year, there were performances by singers and Qatar Orchestra, and plenty of fireworks, alongside aerial and sea displays.

Seating is available all the way down the road with portable toilets. Last year, organisers instructed participants to arrive before 7am.

The arrangements will be pretty much the same this year. There will be buses that will drive to and from the parade grounds and nearby parking lots.

Stay tuned for more updates on Qatar National Day celebrations.