Shreya Shimpi
The vibrant city of Sharjah was awarded the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO. It is a quintessential example of a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity. Sharjah is a melting pot of rich history, cultural heritage, exceptionally diverse terrain, family-oriented environment and unsurpassed hospitality. The Sharjah Light Festival (SLF) is now an integral part of the Emirate’s landscape which attracts thousands of visitors annually. The Sharjah Light Festival has scripted its success story year after year. This year was no exception. The illuminations showcase the artistic ingenuity and skills of local talent and internationally acclaimed artists. As a part of this captivating festival, there were Light shows, Light installations and experiences across the beloved landmarks of Sharjah. ‘The Light Village’ was specially created, offering ‘SLF Eats and Shops’ where visitors could enjoy food and beverages under the stars.
Under the generous patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the synergy of Sharjah’s beautiful architecture, cultural heritage and light first came to be in 2010 with the first Sharjah Light Festival, an event rooted in the Emirate’s cultural identity and heritage. The Light shows were specially curated enchanting experiences with a poignant blend of lights and music making the city glow in all its resplendent glory. The interplay of animations, lights, geometric and modern abstract forms merging with designs inspired by local culture and traditions transported the spectators into a fantasy land offering them a one-of-a-kind experience.’ The Luminous Guardians’ was an alluring show displayed at the Sharjah Police Headquarters. It took the onlookers through a fascinating journey depicting the cultural richness of Sharjah. The iconic landmarks of the Emirate, such as the Sharjah Mosque and the Al Majaz Waterfront were lit up innovatively and creatively. The other illuminated locations were the Kalba Waterfront, New General Souq (Al Hamriyah), Al Dhaid Fort, Al Rafisah Dam- Khorfakkan, Masjid Sheikh Rashid Al Qasimi Mosque (Dibba Al Hisn) and BEEAH Headquarters to name a few. ‘Waves of Reflection’ was a dazzling kinetic lights installation nestled in the heart of Al Majaz Waterfront, offering a fascinating view of the city of Sharjah.
‘The Light Village’ was one of the key attractions of this prismatic festival as it had over fifty mobile food trucks offering various local and international cuisines. Burgers, coffee, desserts, fusion food and traditional specialities were available here just outside Sharjah’s University City Hall. There were various activities for kids as well as youngsters. A digital padel, an Immersive Gallery with a mirror ball exhibition and a ball pit were among the key attractions at ‘The Light Village’. Visitors could also indulge in retail therapy as a number of shops participated in the SLF this year. ’SLF Eats and Shops’ was open to the public from 1st to 18th February and was thoroughly enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
The area dedicated to Light Installations and Experiences was an interesting addition to ‘The Light Village’ this year. It also included an Immersive Gallery with beautiful conceptual light-inspired exhibits and a play area full of riveting activities. A Hyper Sonic Multi-Media Tunnel was another interesting installation flashing quotes and images from one end to the other. A stunning, imaginative, multisensory ball pit experience with spheres rolling beneath an ethereal sky of multi-coloured clouds gave visitors memorable photos and videos. The Drone Show and Bubble-texture inflatable spheres were among the other highlights.
The highly anticipated annual ‘Sharjah Light Festival’ was a grand success which has now become an indispensable part of the Emirate’s legacy. The energy of this event is loved by everyone and the symphony of lights is a reflection of the aspirations of the city and its people.
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