UAE: Sherlock Holmes exhibition, workshops; what to expect at Sharjah Children's Reading Festival
Cooking classes, social media workshops, and children's favourite detective's exhibition. All these and more are on offer during the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival that kicked off today. The festival, which is in its 16th edition, will run until May 4 at the Expo Centre Sharjah.
Watch the video of the festival here:
Promising to engage and inspire children of all ages, the festival features over 1,024 cultural, artistic, and entertainment activities, led by 133 guests from 70 countries.
Attendees can look forward to more than 600 workshops conducted by 22 experts from 11 countries, alongside over 40 cultural events, 35 discussion panels, and 85 performances ranging from theatre to roaming shows.
With 122 publishing houses from 22 countries participating, the festival serves as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange and creative engagement.
Sherlock Holmes Exhibition
One of the major highlights this year is the Sherlock Holmes Exhibition, designed to captivate the imagination of young mystery enthusiasts. The exhibition transforms the entire area into a puzzle-filled world inspired by the legendary detective, complete with replicas of iconic show scenes and books. Children can explore interactive puzzles adorning the walls, engaging them in a thrilling adventure as they channel their inner detective and solve mysteries just like Holmes.
Cooking corner
The festival offers diverse workshops with each workshop uniquely themed and creating immersive experiences that spark curiosity and creativity.
For instance, in the Cooking Corner, the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air as kids learnt to make dough and prepare a North African dish, quesadilla, along with ice cream. Children can also unleash their creativity by creating their own popcorn flavors, using healthy toppings like cinnamon, dried fruits, and nuts.
Sharjah Exhibition of Children's Book Illustration
As children wander through the festival, they are surrounded by giant books and the Sharjah Exhibition of Children's Book Illustration, where award-winning paintings line the alleys, showcasing the talent of illustrators from across the globe. This enchanting atmosphere inspires young minds and encourages a love for reading and storytelling.
One young festival-goer, Wamda, a 9-year-old, expressed her excitement, stating, 'It feels like I'm inside my imagination here at the festival. I'm super excited about all the activities I can be part of!'
The Sharjah Children's Reading Festival is not just an event; it's a journey into the world of literature and creativity. With a focus on activities, this year's festival encourages children to immerse themselves in a variety of experiences, from interactive shows to engaging discussions. It is a place where they can explore their interests and connect with peers who share their enthusiasm for reading and creativity.
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