If you are a food lover and want to try as many new dishes as possible, you should not miss Qatar International Food Festival. It promises to bring together the best culinary cultures from across the world in an unforgettable event that highlights Qatar's rich culture and diversity. Qatar International Food Festival is the longest-running food and beverage festival as well as one of the most famous festivals in Qatar. It shows culinary arts with a variety of activations such as a live cookery theater featuring internationally recognized chefs. There will be also lots of family entertainment for residents and guests of all ages at the festivities.

The spotlight of this festival is definitely food, however, the event also invites some of the most famous chefs in the world. You can watch them prepare a meal on stage or even participate in a masterclass workshop conducted by an expert. And, of course, there is always a feast to enjoy, from the best Qatari delicacies to international flavors, so stay hungry.

When: March

Where: Doha, Qatar

The skies over Aspire Park in Doha are filled with colorful kites in the city’s annual Aspire International Kite Festival. The first festival took place in April 2017 at Aspire Park and was a huge hit with professional kite flyers from all over the world as well as Qataris who went to Doha to take part in this five-day event. Visitors attending this festival will have a chance to colorful kites flying through the air, expertly managed by kite flyers from all over the world. You can also admire traditional kites and take part in the daily workshops to acquire your own kite-making skills.

In addition, kite flying competitions, as well as other exciting competitions with valuable prizes for the winners, kite workshops, food and beverage stalls, entertainment, music, fun, and a variety of other activities will keep you and your family occupied for hours. The professional teams will be flying their kites to compete in four different award categories at Aspire International Kite Festival, including Biggest Kite Award, Longest Kite Award, Best Design, Innovation Award, and Best National Flag Award.

When: March

Where: Doha, Qatar

The Doha Cultural Festival is one of the famous festivals in Qatar as well as in the Middle East. The festival highlights Qatar's tradition and culture, attracting tourists from all around the region. You can find something suiting your taste in this festival, from intimate poetry readings to spectacular dance performances. During the Doha Cultural Festival, visitors may also see a variety of photography, art galleries, and fashion houses or watch several plays that are popular in worldwide folklore.

There is also a full calendar of dedicated children's events and activities, providing your children with the ideal opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of their new home. Whatever your cultural preferences are, you'll find a fresh side of Qatar here. The event also includes the presentation of awards to cultural production pioneers. Therefore, it is a true representation of Qatar's ideals and heritage.

When: March

Where: Doha, Qatar

Visitors who are fans of movies will have unforgettable memories at Ajyal Film Festival. Having previously hosted by the Doha Tribeca Film Festival from 2009 to 2012, this festival represents Qatar's departure from the flash and glamor of the traditional film festival circuit. Ajyal (which means "generations") has become increasingly popular among locals. The festival, which features films from the Arab world, is a terrific way for tourists to explore another side of Qatar.

In recent years, organizers decided to shift their focus to the region's youngsters and families. Ajyal Film Festival aims to use films as a way to raise awareness of crucial global issues among the youngsters in Qatar as well as in other countries. Founded nearly a decade ago, Ajyal has emerged into a showcase of independent cinema from all over the world, as well as a meeting gathering local talents in its short-film area.

When: To be announced

Where: Katara, Doha

Al-Shahaniya Camel Racing is one of the most anticipating festivals in Qatar. Professional camel racing was established in Qatar in 1972. From October to February, domestic and international tournaments are held every Friday, with significant events such as HH the Emir's Main Race taking place in March and April.

Toddler-sized robot jockeys dress in colorful racing silks to entertain locals and tourists and ride camels on the sandy track. Racing camels may reach speeds of up to 40 mph, and they can maintain a 30 mph speed for up to an hour. The operator activates the whip antenna, directs the jockey to tug on the reins, and uses the built-in speaker to encourage the camel. There is a virtual camel city around the racetrack where guests are free to visit the stables. Even if there are no races scheduled, visitors are welcome to come to see the camel's train any morning.

When: From October to February

Where: Ash-Shahaniyah, Qatar

The Qatar International Art Festival in Doha, which takes place over six days in late October or early November, provides a platform for artists from all over the world. The event features live painting demonstrations, seminars, panel discussions, a fashion show, and an exhibition featuring over 200 artists. For artists, they will also have the opportunity to promote their work through print, electronic, digital, and social media, as well as interact with selected art collectors, art investors, and possible buyers. The Qatar International Art Festival in Doha festival welcomes young and professional artists from all around the world to take part and create an open and conducive environment.

Katara Cultural Village will host the festival. Artists interested in participating in the event must apply in advance and pay $800 including everything except air tickets, however, the exhibition and live painting are free to the general audience.

When: Late October or early November

Where: Doha

Over the centuries, Qatar has developed a close relationship with the sea. This relationship is celebrated at the Qatar Marine Festival with a wide range of events and exhibitions emphasizing sea life and preserving the country's rich seafaring heritage. The festival takes held on the Doha waterfront in the famous Katara Cultural Village. There are concerts and attractions for people of all ages here. The seal displays and dancing fountains will undoubtedly delight children, while adults may sample the festival's culinary vendors.

The magnificent musical theater shows include more than 300 performers and high-tech staging that portray the narrative of Qatar and the sea is the main attraction for tourists of all ages. Volleyball on an inflatable court is one of the festival's beach games. During 10 days of the Qatar Marine Festival, fishing events and sailing competitions will be held. The festival will also feature arts and crafts.

When: April

Where: Katara Cultural Village

Of the most famous festivals in Qatar, Qatar National Day, also known as the Founder's Day plays an important role. On December 18th, the country commemorates its independence from the British. Qatar celebrates the event with a national parade along the Doha shoreline. Thousands of residents line the route to witness military and police personnel parade while the air force and navy put on aerial and marine shows. Families may enjoy a week of Qatar National Day at Katara Cultural Village on the riverside, which includes parachute jumps, a cultural fair, and breathtaking fireworks.

On this occasion, Qataris display the national flag or other patriotic symbols on their cars and homes. The flag of the country is a combination of national pride and identity, a symbol of significance and belonging. In addition to expressing solidarity, unity, and pride in Qatar's national identity, the Qatar National Day is recognized as a day dedicated to building national belonging and allegiance.

When: December 18th

Where: All across the country

Dhow boats have been transporting sailors over the Arabian seas and beyond for generations, and Qatar's Traditional Dhow Festival at Katara Cultural Village in Doha honors this majestic sailing vessel each year. Qatar is also proud of having the biggest number of dhow collections in the region. Katara Traditional Dhow Festival is typically held in December.

The festival will feature 70 boats of various sizes and traditional styles, as well as art exhibitions and a marine-themed fireworks performance. In addition, boat building, traditional handicrafts, and workshops demonstrating the ship-building process and historic crafts may be found along the Katara shoreline. On-site, a traditional market sells marine products, handicrafts, and food. For a modest price, you can also set sail on a dhow cruise for a lovely 30-minute voyage to The Pearl. There is a floating café offering visitors a variety of drinks and light foods.

When: November or December

Where: Doha

The Garangao Children's Festival takes place on the 14th day of Ramadan after the fast has been broken. The event is known by several names around the Middle East, but in Qatar, youngsters celebrate Garangao. Kids dress up in traditional Qatari attire and go around the neighborhood singing folk songs at the festival. They go door to door begging for candy and other sweets. Expats are welcome to participate in the fun as well. So, whether your kids want to dress up or you want to prepare some sweet treats for the neighborhood kids, there are lots of activities you can involve in.

After many years of celebrating this event in Qatar, the festival has changed. In the past, children can safely walk from their house to their neighbors without the fear of the dangers of vehicles or strangers. Nowadays, they often pay a visit to other houses with the accompany of their older siblings or housemaids.

When: 14th night of Ramadan

Where: All across the country