16 Unmissable Events and Festivals in Qatar in 2026

Qatar is a land where tradition meets modernity, and its vibrant calendar of festivals and events reflects this unique blend. From colorful cultural celebrations and heritage festivals to world-class art shows, food fairs, and sporting spectacles, there’s something for everyone throughout the year. Whether you’re a traveler seeking authentic experiences, a food lover exploring international cuisine, or an art enthusiast eager to discover local talent, festivals in Qatar offer a captivating glimpse into the nation’s culture, creativity, and community spirit. Get ready to explore the best festivals and events Qatar has to offer in 2026!

Popular Qatar Festivals to Be Part of While on Vacation

Festivals are a part of a country’s heritage and culture, which people should read about and explore while traveling the world. Speaking of traveling the world, people should experience some of the Qatar festivals to know more about the country. Here’s a list of the most iconic events and festivals in Qatar that you cannot afford to miss this year:

1. Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF)

Are you striving to be a chef or do you just live to eat? If yes to both the questions, then the Qatar International Food Festival is a calendar highlight for you! The event brings some of the best chefs from around the world. You can take part in a masterclass workshop taken by an expert or simply watch them cook up a feast on stage. There is so much food to tuck into at the food festival Qatar. Right from the Qatari flavors to tastes from all over the world, there is something for everyone’s stomach and palate, so come hungry.

• Dates: 14 January to 24 January 2026
• Location: 974 Stadium Precinct, Doha
• Visiting Hours: 4 PM to 11 PM (3 PM to 1 AM on Weekends)

Things to Do:

• Watch the opening ceremony with unique theme, live performances and fireworks
• Explore kiosks of restaurants and cafés for unique flavours
• Attend masterclasses, interviews and cooking demos by world-renowned chefs

2. Eid Al Fitr

Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most important festivals in the Middle East. Families and friends celebrate with shopping, outings, and cultural activities. Katara Cultural Village hosts lively festivities, including spectacular fireworks. While Eid Al-Adha follows later in the year, the celebrations continue across the nation. Dates vary each year, so visitors should plan accordingly to experience this vibrant festival firsthand.

Dates: 20 March to 22 March 2026

Things to Do:

• Enjoy family-friendly events at Katara Cultural Village or Souq Waqif
• Explore shopping at malls like Mall of Qatar
• Experience waterfront celebrations in Lusail City

Suggested Read: Food In Qatar That Will Leave You Drooling For More

3. Doha Cultural Festival

One of the biggest cultural events in the Middle East is the Doha cultural festival that attracts people from around the world. The fascinating part about the festivities is that the heritage and culture of Qatar are celebrated at large. There is something for everyone to enjoy, right from intimate poetry readings to dance performances. There are events and activities for kids to enjoy and a chance to discover the culture of the country they live in. Tourists and the locals of the country will always discover a new side of Qatar. This cultural festival is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the locals having the best time of their lives. What more can you ask for when it comes to understanding the culture of this rich country.

• Dates: March 2026 (dates to be announced soon)
• Location: Katara Cultural Village

4. Aspire International Kite Festival (AIKF)

Aspire International Kite Festival (AIKF) is one of the most spectacular events celebrated in Qatar each year. Tourists are awe-struck by the thousands of colorful kites seen flying in the skies above Doha. Several participants from around the world compete in the given categories of the event. Apart from the competitions, kids can keep themselves busy with kite-making workshops and face painting. There are several food stalls around people, and they can explore and indulge in a variety of cuisines. People can participate in a photography competition, which of course gives them the chance to capture the colorful sight of dueling kites.

• Date: 15 January to 24 January 2026
• Location: Aspire Park, Doha, Qatar

Things to Do:

• Enjoy folk dances, music, and stage performances that showcase cultural heritage
• Grab snacks and drinks from various food vendors
• Look for carnival parades and roving performances throughout the festival

Suggested Read: Parks In Qatar To Enjoy The World Of Nature And Serenity

5. Qatar National Day

Qatar National Day marks the unification of Qatar in 1878 under Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani. It is a patriotic celebration showcasing the country’s heritage, culture, and achievements. The day features parades, fireworks, traditional performances, cultural exhibitions, and air shows, drawing locals and tourists together in a festive spirit. Streets and landmarks are adorned with Qatari flags and decorations, and families participate in various events across the country. Qatar National Day is not only a celebration of history but also a vibrant display of national pride and community unity.

Dates: 18 December

Things to Do:

• Enjoy cultural activities, heritage displays and traditional performances in Darb Al Saai
• Watch national day parades and fireworks at Doha Corniche
• Explore family-friendly events, workshops, art, music and artisanal markets

6. Ajyal Film Festival

Organized by the Doha Film Institute (DFI), Ajyal Film Festival offers tourists a magical experience of enjoying the cinema of the Middle East. The film festival marked its departure from the glitz and glamor of the traditional film festival circuit. Going to the film festival is one of the many things to do in Doha. It has proven to be quite popular with the locals, as it showcases movies from the Arab world. Tourists from around the world come to see a different side of the Middle East. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to exploring something new and different?

• Dates: January to June 2026
• Location: VOX Cinema

Things to Do:

• Watch diverse international films
• Join youth juries to vote for awards
• Attend creative workshops and masterclasses with filmmakers

7. Qatar Marine Festival

The culture of the country has developed a connection with the sea over the years. The relationship is celebrated at the Qatar Marine Festival. Katara Cultural village on the Doha waterfront hosts the festival each year. There are all kinds of performances and attractions for people of all ages. One of the most fascinating things to do in Qatar is seal shows and dancing fountains. When it comes to indulging in the local cuisine, guests can grab a bite to eat at some of the food stalls at this laid-back festival. One of the biggest attractions is the musical theater performances that narrate the story of Qatar and the sea.

• Date: January 2026
• Location: Katara beach

Things to Do:

• Learn about pearl diving, net weaving and dhow building
• Enjoy marine-themed plays and storytelling
• Watch traditional Arabic music, dance, and impressive performances

8. Garangao Children’s Festival

Once a fast is broken on the 14th day of Ramadan, the Garangao Children’s Festival is celebrated. Known by different names across the Middle East, the local children celebrate Garangao. The kids dress up in traditional Qatari clothing before making rounds in the neighborhood in groups singing folk songs and ask for candy. Expats also have some fun. These are certain kinds of festivals that make the holidays fun.

Dates: Late February or early March 2026

Things to Do:

• Attend community gatherings, storytelling and themed events at malls or cultural centers
• Wear traditional garments for an authentic experience
• Check for organized celebrations at places like Souq Waqif or cultural villages

Suggested Read: Discover What Makes Qatar Education City Ideal For Receiving An Education Degree

9. Halal Qatar Festival

The celebration of the culture and heritage of Qatar aims at connecting the younger generations with the traditional lifestyle, which includes livestock breeding and care. Among the various festivals of Qatar, this specific festival teaches children about what it takes to keep and breed animals through workshops and live shows. Families can attend the animal beauty contests, with large money prizes on offer for the winners. The Katara Cultural village hosted the festival, which also included traditional arts and crafts stalls and food outlets.

• Date: 11 February to 26 February 2026
• Location: Katara Cultural Village

Things to Do:

• Taste a variety of local and international halal dishes at food stalls
• Browse halal products, fashion, lifestyle goods and souvenirs from local and global brands
• Enjoy live performances, cooking demos, cultural activities and interactive workshops for all ages

10. Doha International Book Fair

Doha International Book Fair is held annually at Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), bringing publishers and authors from all around the globe to the heart of Qatar’s capital. The event aims at promoting reading, knowledge exchange and cultural dialogue in the country. This year, the country is set to celebrate the 35th Doha International Book Fair, where people can find all the latest reads. Apart from boasting books, the fair organizes all kinds of cultural events, which include lectures on publishing and writing, workshops for young authors and arts and crafts activities. Along with attending the book fair, people can even spend a day on the beaches in Doha with family and friends.

• Dates: 14 May to 23 May 2026
• Location: Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC)

Things to Do:

• Explore a vast selection of Arabic and international books
• Engage in cultural events, panel discussions and creative workshops
• See creative displays and discover new publications from different publishers

Suggested Read: Christmas In Qatar To Enjoy The Festive Spirit

11. Souq Waqif Spring Festival

The Souq Waqif Spring Festival is a vibrant celebration of Qatari culture, heritage and entertainment held in the heart of Doha. Visitors can enjoy a lively mix of traditional music, dance performances, art exhibitions and local craft markets, alongside food stalls offering authentic Qatari and international cuisine. The festival also features family-friendly activities, games, and cultural workshops, creating an immersive experience for all ages. With its festive atmosphere, colorful decorations and live performances, the Souq Waqif Spring Festival is a perfect opportunity to explore Qatar’s rich traditions while enjoying a fun and lively springtime celebration.

• Dates: March/April
• Location: Souq Waqif

Things to Do:

• Explore amusement rides, trampoline parks and outdoor games
• Watch folkloric performances, parades, acrobatic acts and concerts by Arab singers
• Participate in activities like painting, decoupage and desert rose carving at Souq Waqif Art Center

12. Katara Traditional Dhow Festival

The Katara Traditional Dhow Festival is one of the major cultural events in Qatar, which is typically celebrated in the month of December each year. People have often asked what makes this festival special and it needs to be celebrated. The celebration of the traditional dhow boats, which have taken sailors and travelers into the Arabian Sea, is something the world needs to know about through the festival. There are several boats of all kinds of sizes and designs that remind people of ancient times. What else? Tourists can attend art exhibitions and marine firework shows. In case you want a ride, you can sail on one of the Dhow cruises for a nominal fee.

• Dates: Late November to December
• Location: Katara Beach, Katara Cultural Village, Doha

Things to Do:

• Participate in traditional rowing, fishing and boat launching contests
• See live demos of dhow construction, blacksmithing, weaving and rope making
• Enjoy music and traditional dances from folk groups
• Look for special events like cartoon shows, musical performances and stage plays

13. Qatar International Art Festival (QIAF)

Held annually at the Katara Cultural Village, the Qatar International Art Festival (QIAF) is the biggest art festival in Qatar. It showcases exceptional artistic talent and highlights art as a vital part of the country’s culture and tradition. It provides a platform for local and international artists to exhibit, perform and sell their work while gaining global recognition. Featuring art exhibitions, live painting, fashion shows, masterclasses and cultural tours, the festival connects artists, critics, and art experts from around the world. Known for fostering creative exchange, it brings diverse communities together through contemporary art, making it a must-visit cultural event in Qatar for friends and families.

• Dates: Early to mid-December 2026
• Location: Katara Cultural Village

Suggested Read: Museums In Qatar For Their Exposure To Foreign Cultures

14. Qatar Camel Festival 2026

Held at Al-Shahaniya Camel Racetrack, Qatar Camel Festival 2026 celebrates Qatar’s rich Bedouin heritage and deep connection to camels. The festival features traditional camel beauty contests (Mazayin), cultural performances, heritage markets, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can experience authentic Qatari customs, local cuisine, and crafts while learning about the historical importance of camels in desert life. Alongside cultural showcases, the festival often coincides with camel racing events, adding excitement to the celebrations. Attracting participants and spectators from across the region, the Qatar Camel Festival is a vibrant cultural highlight that blends tradition, community, and entertainment.

• Date: 11 January to 10 February 2026
• Location: Garafat Al Rayyan and Dukhan Highway, Ash-Shahaniyah, Qatar

Things to Do:

• Watch high-speed races featuring tiny robot jockeys at the Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack
• Experience the thrill of desert safari in a 4x4 vehicle
• Visit nearby desert landmarks like Zekreet Beach or the Richard Serra Desert

Suggested Read: 15 Museums In Qatar For Their Exposure To Foreign Cultures

15. Ramadan

Ramadan is one of the most important religious festivals in Qatar and across the Middle East. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food and drink as an act of faith, gratitude, and compassion for the less fortunate. Observed about 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar, fasting during Ramadan is one of Islam’s five pillars, though exemptions apply for children, the elderly, the ill, pregnant women and travellers. Muslims begin the fast with Suhoor before sunrise and break it at sunset with Iftar, traditionally starting with dates and water.

Date: 17 February 2026 to 19 Mar 2026

Things to Do:

• Witness the ceremonial firing at sunset in Souq Waqif or Lusail Boulevard
• Enjoy evenings with spectacular Iftar (sunset meal) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) at Souq Waqif
• Visit stunning mosques like the Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Grand Mosque
• Attend Ramadan-themed workshops and events in Katara Cultural Village

Suggested Read: Top Restaurants In Qatar That Ensure A Delightful Culinary Experience

16. Eid Al- Adha

Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid Ul Adha, Bakrid or Al Eid Al Kabeer (Grand Eid), is one of the most important festivals in Islam. It commemorates Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. It is observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th and final month in the Islamic calendar. However, the date may vary by country based on lunar sightings. The three-day festival marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and emphasizes charity, with Muslims giving food, money or clothes to those in need. Eid al-Adha is observed by Muslims worldwide.

Date: 26 May to 30 May 2026

Things to Do:

• Attend special Eid tours and family-friendly events at the National Museum of Qatar
• Enjoy special events, music and food at Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village or The Pearl-Qatar
• Venture to the desert at Khor Al Adaid for dune bashing

How To Reach Qatar

By Air: Take a flight to Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha, the main international gateway to Qatar.

Qatar continues to surprise its tourists with charm and various festivities. The country has preserved its rich history, which is reflected in the festivals celebrated each year and never forget to attend the grand festivals in Qatar for an enriching cultural odyssey. Travelers can expect the trip of a lifetime in the Middle East, right from recognizing the historical dhows to showing its love for art through its exhibitions, through its festivals. Book one of our Qatar tour packages and get ready for an endearing vacay in one of the popular Gulf countries!

FAQs - Festivals in Qatar 2026