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Thousands of nautical-loving fans are flocking to the kingdom’s third Sea Festival staged at Bahrain Bay to learn about the island’s rich maritime history and traditions.
The event, organised by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), runs until Saturday and showcases the beauty of the kingdom’s pearl and diving trade over the centuries and the creative craftsmanship of dhows along with clam-shucking and basket weaving.
There is also a seafood market, activities and plenty of family entertainment including live performances.
The CEO of BTEA, Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, said: “The festival has become one the most anticipated events on the kingdom’s calendar. The aim is to position Bahrain as a leading family destination and double the tourism sector’s contribution.”
“Previous editions of the festival have been very popular with visitors from Bahrain and abroad, due to the variety of events at the festival, which are suitable for all ages.”
From the moment visitors’ step into a giant dome entrance, which is covered with long blue streamers symbolising tentacles, they are immersed in a serene sea-life ambience. Long blue bubble lights hang from the dome ceiling while fish and turtles swim across giant LED screens on either side.
Indeed, marine life is all around as an impressive aquarium provides a plethora of information about our aquatic friends. It then leads out into a fishing simulator booth, an activity which proved hugely popular with amateur anglers.
A large museum space then greets them featuring a pearl jewellery merchant section, an area with virtual gaming and other water-related activities for children, along with a colouring zone.
Speaking of entertainment, there was certainly plenty to keep those of all ages entertained. Children gazed in wonder at the fish stilt walkers, who put on an energetic performance in a variety of costumes, occasionally defying the laws of gravity as well as balance as they towered above the audience.
Amazingly, these long-legged legends paled in comparison to the aqua bikes, which drew audible gasps from onlookers. Essentially, these were giant inflatable fish attached to tricycles ridden by captivating underwater characters. Some written descriptions don’t translate well to the imagination; these literally had to be seen to be believed!
Moving onto the more adult end of the spectrum, there is an historical section featuring the kingdom’s pearl diving and maritime timeline with visuals, graphics and audio presentations.
There are antique tools, sculptures and boats on display as well as a handicrafts area and a viewing platform to watch a variety of water sports taking place in the Bay. However, with the current threat of thunderstorms, finding someone brave enough to be pirouetting in the waves might be as rare as discovering treasure in an oyster!
Past the museum doors, eager attendees can delight in the view of a large market on the sand leading to where well-lit dhows are docked including more handicrafts, retailers and a food area offering an array of sea food and some international cuisine.
The outdoor area also includes a painting zone where artists stage live demonstrations and their work will be displayed throughout the festival. Other activities include a surfing simulator, free diving shows and a stage featuring an array of traditional performances.
A band of drummers dressed as fish paraded around the venue while families dined in the food area situated in front of the stage. Large balloon shells are placed around the venue to add to the oceanic element.
The Sea Festival is open from 4pm to 10pm Sunday to Thursday, from 3pm to 11pm on Friday, and from 3pm-10pm on Saturday. Tickets are priced at BD2 per person and entrance is free for children under four.
