Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
HUNDREDS of families flocked to enjoy a fun-filled weekend at a popular mall and dining hotspot listening to local bands perform as magicians delivered spell-binding tricks, writes.
The Galleria Mall Spring Festival in Zinj on Thursday and Friday combined shopping and entertainment as part of a drive to attract more people to the destination and keep its existing clientele happy and wanting more.
Ali Barhoom, the mall manager, said: “We aimed to give our shoppers a reason to celebrate the last few spring weeks before summer really sets in. The weather has been ideal for outdoor activities and considering the open architectural concept of Galleria Mall, people love to stroll around and enjoy these kinds of events.”
The Galleria marketing team came up with the idea for this event as a part of its bigger event planning schedule for 2018.
“The aim was to let people enjoy the pleasant evening weather and engage in the many interactive activities and performances. Also, we wanted to create an event for all age groups to enjoy,” added Ali.
The festivities kicked off at 5pm with a DJ spinning the latest hits followed by a performance dedicated to children that included a captivating show held by a trio of magicians decked out in suits and fedoras, resembling the legendary Blues Brothers.
Children participated in the comedic and mystifying acts as parents cheered on and snapped images from their smartphones.
After the show, celebrated expat act The Relocaters and Bahrain’s famed Majaz delivered show-stopping performances for their growing army of fans.
Silvia Buemi, wife of the Swiss honorary council general to Bahrain, Humbert Buemi, sipped a cup of coffee at Tim Horton’s as she watched Majaz on stage.
Silvia said: “I love the mall’s concept. This is why I came here - to enjoy the music and the weather while also relaxing with a cup of coffee or a snack … and maybe some shopping later too! This event really gets you in the mood and I hope the mall organises more. We have a lot of talented artists in Bahrain so it’s great to see them able to perform live during a regular trip out.”
University of Bahrain student Samar Mohamed, 23, from Hamad Town, was delighted to come and watch her 27-year-old brother Jehad, a cellist, perform. She said: “This was such a great initiative.”
In between sets, children were kept busy at the play areas posted in between stores and there was also a calisthenics show staged for visitors.
Ali added: “We have many other exciting events in the pipeline. We want our shoppers to relate to the mall for all their lifestyle needs from retail therapy, dining, spa and wellness, outdoor activities and entertainment.
“Watch this space … there’s plenty more to come.”
