Qatar summer events a fusion of creativity, sport, entertainment

Qatar is gearing up to host an exciting lineup of summer events that promise to captivate both residents and visitors from Saturday.
For those seeking a captivating cultural experience, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) presents an enchanting evening of music at 7.30pm at Qatar National Convention Centre’s Auditorium 3.
Featuring Brahms' intimate colossus Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major and de Falla's inspired ballet El Sombrero de Tres Picos (Three-Cornered Hat), the concert will transport audiences on a journey of emotions and artistic excellence.
Set to be conducted by Pablo Mielgo, the orchestra will be joined by renowned German classical pianist Gerhard Oppitz. Tickets can be purchased online, and attendees are advised that the venue does not admit children under six.
QPO is also set to perform on June 6 at the Hamilton International School Theatre at 7.30pm and 9.30pm, featuring the astonishing works of Ludwig van Beethoven, Joseph Haydn, and Malcolm Arnold. Headlining the concert will be Beethoven's Symphony No. 2 in D Major, a composition that embodies the indomitable spirit of the legendary composer. Leading the QPO through this extraordinary musical journey is German conductor Elias Grandy.
Sports enthusiasts can still indulge in the adrenaline-pumping QRS Track Challenge 2023, a three-race series concluding at Qatar Sports Club Saturday at 6.30pm. Athletes compete in timed races of varying durations, ranging from five to 20 minutes, on the 400m track.
The Katara Summer Trade Fair, which showcases more than 220 local, Arab, and international enterprises, offer a wide range of products and services, until June 13. The event features diverse offerings from various industries and serves as a platform for businesses to connect with potential customers and partners while immersing themselves in the dynamic atmosphere of Qatar's thriving commercial sector.
The Kazadoo Show at Mall of Qatar promises to create magical moments for children and adults alike. With talented performers, interactive contests, and joyful singing and dancing, the show guarantees laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories. Mall-goers will be treated with multiple daily performances at 5pm, 7pm, and 8:30pm at the mall’s Oasis Stage until June 3.
The Eid al-Adha celebrations at the Doha Corniche from June 28 to 30 provide a chance for people to enjoy gatherings, delicious food, traditional music, and a vibrant festivity. Families and friends often come together in these occasions to share in the joyous atmosphere and create lasting memories.
The Eid holidays will also allow people to visit and discover a number of must-see shows such as the thought-provoking exhibition titled "Olafur Eliasson: The Curious Desert." Inaugurated on March 19 and running until August 15, this exhibition features the works of the Icelandic-Danish artist known for his experimentation with light, colour, and ecological awareness.
The exhibition is presented in two locations, with the desert near the Al Thakhira Mangrove in Northern Qatar serving as an open-air artistic laboratory. Twelve temporary pavilions showcase site-specific installations that utilise natural elements like wind, water, and sunlight to create mesmerizing artworks that evolve throughout the day and the duration of the exhibition.
At the National Museum of Qatar, visitors can explore an extensive gallery presentation featuring Eliasson's works from different periods of his career, including captivating light installations, geometric models, photo series from Iceland, and watercolours, among others.
The exhibition invites guests to contemplate the role of vision, movement, and human interaction in shaping our understanding of the world and constructing our own narratives.
While immersing in Eliasson's imaginative world, organisers advise visitors to be aware that a portion of the indoor installation contains flashing lights that may cause discomfort and potentially trigger seizures. Measures will be in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees.
The Zwara programme, a platform dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design and sparking creativity, invites visitors to navigate ongoing exhibitions, archives, and collections at M7 at Msheireb until September 10. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant and innovative creative landscape of Qatar. It is free for all and open from 9am to 7pm, Saturday to Thursday; and from 1:30pm to 7pm on Fridays.
Inspired by the recent Forever Valentino exhibition, Qatar-based designers taking part in Zwara explore the fascinating connections between fashion and other design disciplines such as art, architecture, and technology.
Yet another key attraction is the ‘Disney On Ice Presents 100 Years of Wonder’, from July 4 to 8 at the Lusail Multipurpose Hall. Audiences of all ages will be treated to an extraordinary ice-skating extravaganza, marking the timeless stories and beloved Disney characters. Disney Princesses will inspire with tales of strength, determination, and kindness, accompanied by breathtaking ice-skating performances and iconic Disney songs.