7 fascinating festivals to shake it up in Sharjah

Do you like food, books, lights and culture? Silly question we know, but if you are a lover of even just one of these things, then you are bound to be kicking your chair in despair when it is time to leave Sharjah. Check out this guide to seven of the best festivities in Sharjah in 2018. Attend the water, lights and food festivals and explore UAE culture. Here are our top picks for festivals in 2018. Don't miss them!

1. Delectable dishes at the Food Festival

We all love a toasty dish in the winter and sweet cold deserts under the summer's sun. And one of the coolest things about traveling, is sampling tastes you could never have imagined before. Sharjah Food Festival invites you to wrap your taste buds in happiness with demonstrations, food trucks, fruit carving and entertainment.

2. Look to the past during Heritage Days

Held across a number of venues in the city in April, the Sharjah Heritage Days is a celebration of Emirate culture. This year it will be from 4 April 2018 to 22 April 2018, so if you are visiting this Spring, be sure to attend some of the events. Be fascinated by storytelling, dance, demonstrations, music and much more. The event seeks to educate the younger generations of traditions past, so you will get a glimpse into a rich and ancient culture.

3. Entertain the kids at the reading festival

The Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF) in April is another popular event especially for those with little ones. For 10 days, top children's authors come to the Emirate to read their books and entertain. For those lucky ones attending SCRF, there are a bunch of activities to take part in. Let the kids get their faces painted, partake in sand art, storytelling, puppet shows and more.

4. Find some good reads at the International Book Festival

For bookworms visiting a little later in the year, the Sharjah International Book Fair is held in from 31st October til 10th of November. This event is for the whole family, with a kid's program, cooking and cultural events. Kids can head to the halls hosting plays, activities and storytelling, as well as learn new skills in the kitchen. There are cooking demonstrations for all ages. Laugh and get creative while watching the less serious cooking shows, and learn how to make Arabian food and special treats at others.

5. Be swept away by the UAE National Day

Just like all wonderful national day parties, the UAE National Day is filled with fun, fireworks and events. On December 2 each year, residents and visitors gather at venues and on streets across the whole UAE to applaud the union of the Emirates. Song, dance, shows and exhibitions can be found across Sharjah and are worth a visit. Learn about the culture of this great nation and share in the celebrations.

6. Watch the amazing Water Festival

With winter temperatures in December hanging out from 20-30 degrees Celsius, and minimal rainfall, it is no surprise that the Emirate has its own water festival. Sharjah Water Festival is about all things wet and wild and is sure to captivate your interest. Watch stunt drivers do daredevil acts on the water on kiteboards, jet skis and more. Along the water, you will find a number of great activities like sand sculptures, fishing and a carnival.

7. Eyes bright at the Light Festival

Each year in February, the city's buildings swap out their pretty glass and grey facades by lighting them up in fantastic colors. Sharjah Light Festival is about ‘illuminating your imagination' and falling in love with the capital through bright lights, shows and activities. Over 20 different locations are getting involved in 2018 spilling flashing colors across their buildings, telling stories coupled with concerts. Let flashes and fire ignite your evening.

So what are you waiting for? Book your vacation with Radisson Blu Resort, Sharjah and we guarantee you an unforgettable experience!