Following the overwhelming success of last year’s event, Freej Aspire will open its doors on Saturday to offer members of the local community a chance to enjoy the spirit of Ramadan in a comfortable and welcoming, air-conditioned environment.
On the opening day of this second edition, Freej Aspire will host a range of activities that offer something for all the family. Raqi group, a youth initiative, will be organising a number of competitions for children and their families.
Several religious lectures delivered by renowned scholars are also being organised in collaboration with Raf Foundation.
Aspire Active nutritionist Mariam Bekhit will take to the stage during the Freej Aspire to share healthy tips and advice on how to follow a balanced diet and maintain a healthy lifestyle during Ramadan.
Renowned cook Mohamed Nijm will also present a number of his special recipes on the stage under the banner of ‘Aspire Cuisine,’ designed to share a number of healthy eating options with members of the local community during Ramadan.
Two short films by Qatari directors will be presented from the Freej Aspire stage as part of an ongoing series films to be screened every day. Members of the audience will also be given the opportunity to meet both directors to discuss the making of their films.
A range of activities and competitions focused on Qatari culture and traditions will also be on offer at the Freej Aspire. A number of sports events will be organised for families to take part in, including football and basketball played on mini pitches and courts.
Children will have the chance to play traditional Qatari games in a dedicated area, as well as interact with cartoon characters and listen to traditional stories narrated by storyteller Rashid al-Shib.
They will also have the opportunity to explore and develop their creative side through a range of activities that include Arabic calligraphy classes, workshops designed to build their understanding and awareness of Qatari traditions and heritage.
Organising these workshops reflects Aspire Zone Foundation’s (AZF) efforts to celebrate Qatari history and traditions during Ramadan and to showcase the cultural significance of Arabic calligraphy and its role in the development of the Arabic language and Islamic culture.
This year, AZF has organised a dedicated space at Freej Aspire to exhibit a number of traditional artworks in addition to a corner for henna drawing – a popular activity in the GCC.
The Freej will also host an exhibition for cyclists designed to promote a cycling culture amongst the local community. Qatar Red Crescent Society will also organise a dedicated booth to familiarise the public with their activities and services.
Small and medium-sized Qatari businesses are being given the opportunity to exhibit their products and services to the local community, demonstrating AZF’s commitment to supporting a wide range of organisations.
Freej Aspire will provide a platform for more than 22 Qatari businesses to promote themselves to the local community, alongside 17 kiosks featuring traditional Qatari products, sweets, snacks and drinks.
Capable of hosting 3,000 visitors per day, this year’s Freej Aspire occupies an area of more than 8,000sqm, air-conditioned to 25 degrees C to keep visitors comfortable.
Freej Aspire forms part of Aspire Zone’s Ramadan Festival that runs from the Ramadan 5 – 20 (June 10-24), and which comprises a unique combination of spiritual, sporting and social activities in celebration and observance of the holy month.
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