Consider these summer destinations for your children's entertainment
Published: 04:08 PM,Aug 07,2024 | EDITED : 08:08 PM,Aug 07,2024
Consider these summer destinations for your children's entertainment
In Oman, children are spoiled for choice when it comes to spending their summer holidays, with a wealth of traditional games and sports activities, such as 'Hawalees,' available to keep them entertained. Rather than just visiting relatives, many parents prefer engaging their children in both outdoor and indoor activities to prevent them from becoming sedentary during the break.
Two popular destinations in the capital area for families are Festival City and Sports Spark, both of which are drawing large crowds.
Festival City: A Hub of Family Entertainment
Oman’s own Festival City, located in Azaiba, offers a variety of activities, from small boat rides for young children to thrilling car races for older kids, as well as roller coasters and other exciting rides. As the summer holidays near their end, families flock to Festival City to socialize and ensure their children have enriching experiences.
Festival City has been bustling with families eager to explore activities that offer everything from adrenaline-pumping games to intellectually stimulating pursuits. With over 17 rides, live entertainment from renowned entertainer Ihtilal al Hinai, and numerous open-air activities, Festival City provides a true festival atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for family fun. Mohammed al Hashmi, a representative from Festival City, notes the importance of Italian rides in enhancing the experience.
“We are witnessing an increased influx of Omani families as the school vacation comes to an end in August. We aim to add more attractions to make Festival City a complete family destination for people from all over the country,” said Mohammed al Hashmi.
Sports Spark: A Summer Camp Extravaganza
Not far from Festival City, the Oman Exhibition and Convention Center hosts the 'Sports Spark 2024' summer camp, catering to children of all ages with a passion for sports and educational activities. The camp combines recreation and education, offering a wide range of activities such as football, badminton, basketball, volleyball, ninja challenges, electronic and board games, arts and crafts, and life skills development.
“Although the sports and games are designed for children aged 6 to 14, we are welcoming families in large numbers. These activities align with the Muscat Governorate’s commitment to promoting sports and physical activities among children, providing them with a healthy and enjoyable summer experience. Children have the chance to try new sports, engage in educational activities, and form friendships while strengthening social relationships through team sports,” the organizers shared with the Observer.
Running until August 24, 2024, from Sunday to Thursday, 8 am to 1 pm, the summer camp aims to showcase the diverse entertainment options available in the governorate and offers activities for all members of society.
This summer, consider indoor activities
The extreme heat of the summer in Oman not only makes outdoor activities uncomfortable but can also pose health risks, including heat exhaustion and dehydration. Indoor activities offer a welcome reprieve, allowing residents to stay cool and safe while still enjoying their time.
Air-conditioned spaces such as shopping malls, gyms, and entertainment centres provide a comfortable environment, allowing individuals and families to engage in leisure activities without the sweltering heat. Malls like City Centre Muscat, City Centre Qurum, and My City Centre Sur offer a variety of options from shopping to dining and entertainment, all within climate-controlled environments.
Moreover, indoor venues often host special events, workshops, and activities tailored to beat the heat, providing engaging experiences for all ages. By choosing indoor activities, Omanis and visitors alike can enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle, all while staying protected from the harsh summer elements. As the mercury rises, embracing indoor pursuits ensures both enjoyment and safety during the hottest months of the year.
Two popular destinations in the capital area for families are Festival City and Sports Spark, both of which are drawing large crowds.
Festival City: A Hub of Family Entertainment
Oman’s own Festival City, located in Azaiba, offers a variety of activities, from small boat rides for young children to thrilling car races for older kids, as well as roller coasters and other exciting rides. As the summer holidays near their end, families flock to Festival City to socialize and ensure their children have enriching experiences.
Festival City has been bustling with families eager to explore activities that offer everything from adrenaline-pumping games to intellectually stimulating pursuits. With over 17 rides, live entertainment from renowned entertainer Ihtilal al Hinai, and numerous open-air activities, Festival City provides a true festival atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for family fun. Mohammed al Hashmi, a representative from Festival City, notes the importance of Italian rides in enhancing the experience.
“We are witnessing an increased influx of Omani families as the school vacation comes to an end in August. We aim to add more attractions to make Festival City a complete family destination for people from all over the country,” said Mohammed al Hashmi.
Sports Spark: A Summer Camp Extravaganza
Not far from Festival City, the Oman Exhibition and Convention Center hosts the 'Sports Spark 2024' summer camp, catering to children of all ages with a passion for sports and educational activities. The camp combines recreation and education, offering a wide range of activities such as football, badminton, basketball, volleyball, ninja challenges, electronic and board games, arts and crafts, and life skills development.
“Although the sports and games are designed for children aged 6 to 14, we are welcoming families in large numbers. These activities align with the Muscat Governorate’s commitment to promoting sports and physical activities among children, providing them with a healthy and enjoyable summer experience. Children have the chance to try new sports, engage in educational activities, and form friendships while strengthening social relationships through team sports,” the organizers shared with the Observer.
Running until August 24, 2024, from Sunday to Thursday, 8 am to 1 pm, the summer camp aims to showcase the diverse entertainment options available in the governorate and offers activities for all members of society.
This summer, consider indoor activities
The extreme heat of the summer in Oman not only makes outdoor activities uncomfortable but can also pose health risks, including heat exhaustion and dehydration. Indoor activities offer a welcome reprieve, allowing residents to stay cool and safe while still enjoying their time.
Air-conditioned spaces such as shopping malls, gyms, and entertainment centres provide a comfortable environment, allowing individuals and families to engage in leisure activities without the sweltering heat. Malls like City Centre Muscat, City Centre Qurum, and My City Centre Sur offer a variety of options from shopping to dining and entertainment, all within climate-controlled environments.
Moreover, indoor venues often host special events, workshops, and activities tailored to beat the heat, providing engaging experiences for all ages. By choosing indoor activities, Omanis and visitors alike can enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle, all while staying protected from the harsh summer elements. As the mercury rises, embracing indoor pursuits ensures both enjoyment and safety during the hottest months of the year.