The more than two-month long Qatar Summer Festival (QSF 2017) starting on June 22 will feature an array of activities. Among the major attractions is the live entertainment on June 27 featuring American superstar comedian Marlon Wayans at the Qatar National Convention Centre.

The festival has on schedule music concerts by Arab and Gulf singers. They are to be held in association with Rotana, one of the largest Arab entertainment companies.

Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) officials who briefed the journalists on the QSF 2017 yesterday said the more than 70-day festival would showcase the country's urban and family entertainment offerings in a big way and they are expected to boost the country's hospitality and retail sectors during an otherwise off-peak period.

While shopping promotions are starting in as many as eight participating malls on June 22, all other promotions are expected to start on June 25.

The participating malls are Dar Al Salam, Ezdan Mall, Gate Mall, Gulf Mall, Hyatt Plaza, Mall of Qatar, Lagoona Mall and The Landmark.

As many as 77 hotels and hotel apartments too are joining the festival, offering mainly accommodation packages, free daily breakfast for guests and pool access/promotions.

Some of the retailers at participating malls will offer discounts up to 50% and other promotions, besides playing host to entertainment shows.

Every QR200 spent at any of the participating malls will give shoppers a chance to take part in the mega raffle draw being held on the last day of the QSF (September 5). They stand a chance to win 10 cash prizes and a super luxury car.

Visitors who book with the QSF 2017 partners Discover Qatar or WeGo.com could benefit from special travel and accommodation offers.

The QSF 2017 centerpiece, the Entertainment City at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) will offer between June 25 and September 5 more than 35 rides, skill games, video games, live entertainment shows, 24 food court outlets and 8 pop-up shows.

Another attraction of the festival will be the GCC Majors Competition (On June 30 and July 1) where video game players across Gulf States will be taking part.

The festival will also feature an International Mindsports Championship, bringing together close to 1,500 sport enthusiasts from nearly 40 countries. This will be held at DECC, between August 19 and 27. The games include scrabble, chess, backgammon, bridge, Go and eSports. The competitors will share a record $200,000 prize.

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