Muscat Nights: Looking back at 17 days of extravaganza

The 17 days of fun and fiesta of Muscat Nights came to an end on Saturday. The four venues earmarked for the festival had hosted innumerable activities and shows to entertain the visitors. While Qurum Natural Park wooed the audience with the Boats Lake Shows, Helium Shows, laser shows, drone shows and water shows, Naseem Garden showcased the depth of friendship between the participating countries and the Sultanate of Oman.  The food trucks, horse shows, hurdles jumping competitions, open-air cinema and kids’ games were the added attractions

The Oman Automobile Association had several activities and stage shows to attract visitors. A theatrical and lyrical performance was held by Ace the Whitebeards, an Omani youth troupe that presented theatrical art. Apart from that there were  many electronic game rooms to keep pace with the interests of youngsters who love technology and play in the virtual world.

There were a variety of artistic performances at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. 'Winter Show in the Forest', a circus that simulated the North Pole in a carnival style, was a huge hit among children. The show by Mr. Bob, opened up a world full of interaction, fun and imagination for children.

Another event that caught the attention of many was the Show jumping tournament that was held in Qurum Natural Park. The aim of the tournament was to involve private stables to implement various equestrian competitions, especially the Olympic Equestrian Sports and attract fans interested in equestrian sports.

Movie lovers were in for a treat to catch their favourite film sitting under the stars. The open-air cinemas at Qurum Natural Park and Naseem Garden screened many popular films as part of the Muscat Nights events.

"I really liked the decorative lights that illuminated the alleys that lead to the different venues. It was nice to see men and women, clad in their traditional attire, dancing to the familiar folklore melody in perfect rhythm, " Ayesha Ali said. The Heritage Village at Naseem Garden had various handicraft stalls that attracted the tourists.

Carpets and handmade items found in bright colours, fine designs and unique texture were quite an attraction. Wearing traditional and colourful clothes, a number of women had won people's hearts by preparing and serving some traditional Omani cuisine. Having travelled from different governorates of Oman, they offered a variety of delectable traditional Omani dishes to the visitors.