When its halfway through Ramadan it is time for the children’s festival Garangao. This is a Qatari tradition that celebrates tradition and the rich cultural heritage of Qatar.
What is #Garangao #قرنقعوه ?
The event occurs on the 14th night at the mid-point in Ramadan. Traditionally parents sent their children to the neighbours to get nuts and sweets. The children are dressed brightly in their Garangao clothing.
During Ramadan 2017 Garangao will officially take place on Friday 9th June, however Garangao events are taking place throughout the week.
There is much to learn about this cultural tradition. Watch the following film by Doha Film Institute which explains more about the background, and the tradition of “Gara-Gara-Garangao!”
Renowned storyteller, Um Khalaf, sees it as an important part of Qatari tradition:
‘Take care of it, preserve it and strive to plant it in your children’s hearts.’
Some of the more popular Garangao activities take included Garangao treasure or sweet collections, craft activities, and other celebrations. Last year’s biggest events took place at Aspire Zone, Ezdan Mall, Hyatt Plaza Mall, Katara, The Pearl-Qatar and Qatar Foundation.
Ramadan 2017 – Where to Celebrate Garangao In Qatar
- Check the dates and timings of events, as some be too late for younger children.
- You may have to call to confirm attendance for some events, although most events are free and open to the public.
- Some events are time-sensitive, so be sure to arrive on time where possible.
- Keep an eye on your children as late-night events can get busy.
- Be sure to double-check timings of events before heading out, as venues may change last-minute details from those listed.
The Pearl-Qatar
WHEN: Friday 9th June, 2017
TIME: 8:00pm until 11:00pm
WHERE: 29 La Croisette, Porto Arabia
Katara Cultural Village
WHEN: Friday 9th June 2017
TIME: 9:00pm until 12:00am midnight
WHERE: Katara Corridors
Souq Waqif Art Center
WHEN: Friday 9th June 2017
TIME: 8:00pm until 11:00pm
WHERE: Souq Waqif Art Center, Souq Waqif
Royal Plaza Doha
WHEN: Saturday 10th June 2017
TIME: From 8:00pm
WHERE: Royal Plaza Mall, Al Saad
The Mall
WHEN: Friday 9th June, 2017
TIME: 8:00pm until 11:00pm
WHERE: The Mall, D Ring Road
Garangao Festival at AlRayyan Hotel
WHEN: Friday 9th June, 2017
TIME: 7:30pm until 8:30pm
WHERE: AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton – Next to Mall of Qatar
Café Céramique Qatar at QNCC
WHEN: Friday 9th June 2017
TIME: from 8:00pm
WHERE: QNCC
The Mall of Qatar (MOQ)
WHEN: 7th-9th June, 2017
TIME: 9:00pm until 12:00am midnight
WHERE: The Oasis at MOQ
Souq Waqif Boutique Hotel, Souq Waqif
WHEN: Friday 9th June, 2017
TIME: 7:30pm until 9:30pm
WHERE: Al Jasra, and Al Bidda. RSVP required to souqwaqif@minor.com or call +974 4433 6616
Maktaba Qatar
WHEN: Saturday 10th June 2017
WHO: For members
TIME: from 10:30am
WHERE: Maktaba Children’s Library, Al Mabahej
Doha Festival City
WHEN: Friday 9th June 2017
TIME: From 8:30pm until 12:00am midnight
WHERE: Centre Court, Ground Floor at Doha Festival City
Asian Town
WHEN: Friday 9th June, 2017
TIME: From 7:30pm
WHERE: Asian Town Multifunction Hall, Cricket Stadium – registration to +974 3331 6166 | 7072 5054
Qatar Foundation
WHEN: Thurs 8th June, 2017
TIME: 7:30pm until 12:00am midnight
WHERE: Al Shaqab Arena, Qatar Foundation
McDonalds Branches
WHEN: Friday 9th June 2017
TIME: Mostbranches 7:00 until 9:00pm (except Airport and Barwa City 8:30pm – 10:30pm)
WHERE: All McDonalds Branches