With just three days remaining until the kickoff of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, the Cultural Village Foundation - Katara has unveiled a month-long celebration featuring a diverse array of 46 events. Announced on their official social media account, the festivities will take place from January 12 to February 10.
Running from 3 pm to 11 pm at various locations within Katara, the program encompasses a wide range of activities, including artistic performances, interactive experiences, and engaging events.
Leading up to the tournament, Katara has undergone a transformation with the display of flags from participating countries, reminiscent of the preparations seen during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
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The launch of Katara's events at Al Hikma Square on January 11 will be marked by the release of 500 homing pigeons. Throughout the month, the Street Art Festival will animate Katara streets, providing a platform for artists, actors, and musicians to showcase their talents individually or in groups. Simultaneously, the Katara International Arabian Horse Festival is scheduled from February 2 to 11 at Katara Esplanade.
The entertainment lineup includes Arabic concerts by Moudi Al Shamrani and Rihab Al Sharmani, along with performances by Amin Bouchard and Nawal Al Kuwaiteya at the Amphitheatre on February 1, 8, and 9, respectively. Additional attractions comprise the Military Choir from January 12 to February 10, the Army Parachute Group at Katara Beach (date to be announced), and the Qatari Ardha performances at Al Hikma Square, set every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Noteworthy events include an attempt to break the Guinness World Record by controlling a ball without letting it fall for 49 consecutive hours at Al Hikma Courtyard from January 15 to 17, named "Ricardinho 49 hours."
Further enhancing the cultural tapestry are events such as Malaysian Cultural Performances on January 19 and a Bollywood-themed dance performance on January 26 and February 2.
Other events include the Xingjang song and dance troupe musical show at the Drama Theatre on January 21, the Indonesian Parade on January 1 and 9, and Nations Fashion at Al Hikma Courtyard from January 12 to February 10.
Numerous activities, including Al Thuraya Planetarium shows, street decorations, the Asian Cup Children’s Festival, and events in collaboration with the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, are also scheduled.
Moreover, lined up are meet-and-greet sessions with the Harimau Malaya, the national football team of Malaysia, the Al Mazayen bird competition, fine art, and photography competitions, movie screenings including "Neko Ninja" by the Japanese Embassy and "Ola Bola" related to the AFC, and a craft market featuring traditional crafts and folk heritage revival.
The extensive exhibition lineup also includes exhibitions of Asian Cup postage stamps, traditional wooden ships, oud instrument history, Qatari art, Katara international exhibit for Kahraman, a sand exhibit, and the Katara International Asian Nations exhibit featuring 70 artists.