Festivals and Annual Events

This festival is celebrated by the Shiite inhabitants of Bahrain, observed in memory of the martyrdom of Hussain ibn Ali. It is observed by others to celebrate the foundation day of the Holy Kaabah in Mecca.

Also thought to have been on 7th February and celebrated in memory of his coming to this world.

Held annually since 2004, when the first ever Formula One Grand Prix in the entire Middle East was held here. It is a widely anticipated event in the country's sporting calendar. Crowds from all parts of this island and from all countries across Asia gather in vast numbers to watch the best drivers racing neck to neck for the cup. The race goes on for three days and is treated by the Bahrainis as a three day long festival.

The most widely celebrated festival in Bahrain. It marks the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad and is celebrated by both the religious Islamic sects; the Shiites and the Sunnis but on different dates. The festivities include processions, feasting and storytelling. Held annually in April, Milad al -Nabi is the most popular among Bahrain’s festivals and events.

This festival is held annually from the 1st to the 4th of May and commemorates Labour Day and the International Day for Press Freedom. This is a non-profit cultural event where films from around the world, (relating to human rights) are screened. This event promotes dialogue, the understanding of cultures, tolerance and human rights.

This day falls on the 27th of June. Bahrainis celebrate this day with pyrotechnics, opera and festivities.

This 5-day event is held in early November at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre. Stunning gold, silver, pearl and gemstone jewelry from around the Middle East is put on display here.

Bahrain commemorates its National Day on the 16th of December, with parades, speeches, processions and other special events.

Celebrated on the 17th of the month, this holiday marks the country’s accession. The island nation of Bahrain celebrates yearly with fireworks, buildings are lit up and the royal portraits are put up on billboards around the country.

Chinese traders gather for this event at the International Exhibition Centre to display their goods. The event lasts four days. It is announced some time before it takes place to give those wishing to attend sufficient opportunity.

Eid Al Fitr is one of the most important joyful occasions celebrated by people in Bahrain and throughout the Arab and Islamic world. It is a golden opportunity to exchange visits, welcome family, relatives and neighbours, and offer them congratulations. Eid is also an occasion to meet people we have not seen for a long time because of busy schedules and limited time, and an opportunity for reconciliation, peace of mind, and ending hostilities and disagreements.