The 13th Halal Qatar Festival was officially opened in Katara's southern region on Wednesday by the Cultural Village Foundation. The festival draws a sizable audience of heritage enthusiasts and lovers of traditional culture, with notable participation from livestock farmers in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait.
The Mazayen competitions kicked off the Festival's events wherein the breeders displayed the best livestock varieties in various categories in front of a panel of judges and livestock specialists.
Auctions for various rare goat and sheep breeds were held on the first day, which increased the event's enthusiasm. The festival offers a variety of ancillary events and activities in addition to the competitions, including a full market with veterinary pharmacies, date stores, honey and confectionery shops, traditional foods, and handicrafts; children's workshops for drawing and crafts; and a traditional tent (Beit Al Shaar) to introduce kids and tourists to traditional ways of life.
In order to assist teach the next generation to the history of horsemanship and desert transportation, a special area has been created for kids to enjoy safe and enjoyable horse and camel riding.
In addition, an art show exhibiting the creations of nine Qatari and international artists was opened as part of the Festival in partnership with Gallery 38. The artworks lend a fresh cultural dimension to the Festival, drawing inspiration from the desert heritage and its genuine components.
The Festival, which combines legacy and authenticity, will run through February 24. It offers an excellent venue for promoting the Gulf's livestock breeding legacy (goats and sheep), and it has a range of traditional performances and competitions that draw fans of folklore and heritage. Additionally, it provides visitors with the chance to learn about uncommon cattle breeds and their breeding practices in a desert-like setting.
