Garangao Cultural Activation a big draw at Corniche Plaza

The Garangao Cultural Activation at the Corniche Plaza Wednesday attracted thousands of children, featuring an array of educational and creative activities.
From henna and face-painting and art workshops to live theatre shows, the celebration offered families and children an exciting and joyful treat that continued until midnight. Qatar Tourism (QT), in collaboration with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar, Qatar Airways and Ooredoo, organised the Garangao Cultural Activation at the Corniche Plaza.
Filipino expatriate Nilo P lauded the activation, saying that it provided children with an enjoyable and unique learning experience, apart from the various beautiful attractions at the venue.
"My daughter was so happy to participate in the art activities. It's good to see children eager to learn from such events because they drive them away from electronic devices," he said, hoping that similar events will be organised even after Ramadan.
Ahmed Ali, an Indian expatriate, went to the Corniche Plaza with his two kids. "They had a really good time there. The event highlighted the spirit of Ramadan and also provided some moments to remember for the entire family," he said.
Garangao is a traditional celebration that coincides with the 14th night of Ramadan. It is considered one of the most important Ramadan occasions in Qatar, when children knock on doors and collect nuts and sweets around their neighbourhood. Various public and private entities also organise big Garangao celebrations.
The Corniche Plaza event also featured stage shows, puppet shows as well as question-and-answer sessions that offered prizes to participants, and a fashion show -- which enticed many young participants to dress up in a unique Garangao outfit.
A large number of visitors also had the chance to take part in a workshop with Qatari artist and wildlife photographer Azzam al-Mannai, along with Lebanese artist Iyad Mouwad.
Some festivalgoers found it fashionable to wear the Batoola after witnessing and participating in a design workshop -- an event exclusively for girls -- giving them the opportunity to create and design their Batoola.
Other activities also included Sadu bracelet workshop, henna and face painting, Polaroid selfies (picture-taking) and gift giving, among others.