Qatar is a vibrant place to visit, with a diverse culture and rich traditions. Doha is the capital city of Qatar, and many interesting public celebrations happen throughout the year.

The government officially sets 8 public holidays with celebratory events associated with them. If you’re planning to come to Doha anytime soon, you might want to know this to make your travel worthwhile. Please note that the activities during each holiday might change annually.

National Sport Day- 2^nd Tuesday of February (1 day)

The first National Sport Day in Qatar happened in 2012. Since then, annually, the second Tuesday of February marks the beginning of the biggest sports day in the country.

The main purpose of National Sport Day is to promote sports, educate the local population on ways to reduce health risks associated with an inactive lifestyle, and encourage awareness of a healthy lifestyle and the benefits of exercise.

The community comes together in large outdoor spaces and participates in different sporting events and programs organised by The Sport Day Committee, a board formed by the Ministry of Culture and Sports.

Eid Al Fitr (3 days)

Eid Al Fitr is an important Islamic religious celebration at the end of each Ramadan. It customarily lasts for three full days. Depending on the actual start of Ramadan, the exact day of Eid Al Fitr is determined by the sighting of the new moon after the 29^th day of Ramadan.

For people visiting Qatar, it is a good time to enjoy the festivities of this occasion because everyone is in high spirits, and it’s a public holiday. During this time of the year, people celebrate with their families, friends and relatives, bonding and enjoying their time together in their homes. Children receive money from family members and neighbours in practice called 'Eidiya'.

Check out:

• What you need to know about Eid Al Fitr
• #QTip: What is Eidiya, and why do kids love it?

Eid Al Adha (3 days)

Eid Al Adha is celebrated on 10 Dhul Hijjah (the ‘month of the pilgrimage’) every year, based on the Islamic calendar. This coincides with the 3rd day of Hajj and falls on the day following the gathering of people - performing the annual Islamic pilgrimage at Arafat in Saudi Arabia.

After the Eid prayer, those celebrating usually visit their family and friends, share a meal, and give charity. To celebrate the occasion, people may also go out to participate in different Eid related activities. The celebrations last for three days, and animal sacrifice is made on either of the days.

National Day- December 18 (1 Day)

Patriotism at its finest! This is probably the best way to describe Qatar’s National Day celebrations and the best time to come to Qatar. The holiday is celebrated annually on December 18.

Here are some of the activities during this celebration (may vary)

• National Day Parade at Corniche in the morning, a gallant display of Qatar's nationalism
• Fireworks display at Corniche
• Many heritage-themed events are held at Katara Cultural Village
• Family entertainment in malls for kids and kids at heart

RELATED:

• #QTip: Know what holidays you are entitled to in Qatar (Know your rights)
• Did you know we also celebrate these days in Qatar?
• Everything you need to know about Hajj; how to go from Qatar

Originally written by Arvin Garcia, updated by Vrinda Abhilash

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Vrinda Abilash

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