Garangao celebrations for children in Qatar

Garangao is a children's festival traditionally celebrated in Qatar and throughout the Middle East after breaking of the fast on the 14th of Ramadan.

The festival is known by different names in each region: Garangao or Garangaou in Bahrain and Qatar, Qariqaan or Karkee'aan in Saudi Arabia, Al-Majeena Karkiaan in Iraq, Gargee'aan in Kuwait, Hag Al Leylah in UAE and Garangashoch, Qarnakosh or At-Tablah in Oman.

Over the years, Garangao has gained some recognition with several expat communities joining the celebrations. In a way, Garangao is reminiscent of Halloween in the West.

Traditionally, children get dressed up in bright Qatari clothes, take a cloth bag and visit houses in their Freej (neighborhood), collecting nuts and sweets. Kids can be seen enjoying until late into the night singing popular Garangao songs.

Garangao 2015 celebrations

Although Garangao falls on the 14th of Ramadan, many companies and organizations in Qatar have started the celebrations early.

Traditional music for everyone to enjoy at our #Garangao celebrations. #Ramadan #Qatar #Doha pic.twitter.com/J9CsAEPJTr

— Qatar Foundation (@QF) June 29, 2015

Children are playing traditional games and enjoying the festive spirit at our #Garangao night. #Qatar #QFRamadan pic.twitter.com/xrBBTyZBAf

— Qatar Foundation (@QF) June 29, 2015

احتفالات و نشاطات ليلة #القرنقعوه في فرع بلازا : https://t.co/BqNhS3BYAQ pic.twitter.com/eeozjldxJM

— Commercial Bank (@CBQat) June 29, 2015

However, there's still a lot more Garangao festivities that will be happening this week.

Aspire Zone

The Aspire Zone will host a night full of Garangao fun and games on Wednesday, July 1 from 9pm until midnight at Freej Aspire, the Aspire Ramadan tent.

Some of the highlights include a music and magic show as well as traditional Qatari games and a special movie screening of animated classic, Ponyo, with Doha Film Institute.

Salam Stores (Gate Mall)

Salam Stores at Gate Mall has invited Qatar residents to join in the Garangao celebrations July 1-2 from 9pm - midnight at Gate Mall first floor.

Entertainment includes Umm Khammas characters, 5D Cinema, story telling and face painting.

Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village is hosting a Garangao activity on Wednesday, July 1, from 8-11 pm as part of their Ramadan activities.

The Garangao event is free and open to the public. It will be held at a designated path around the Katara amphitheatre. Children will get gift bags that they can use to collect nuts and candies.

Refreshments will be provided, along with entertainment at the nearby Ramadan Market set up on the Katara Esplanade.