Q Life Magazine Q Magazine (US) December 2015 | Page 37
Arts & Culture |
Celebrating Qatar
National Day
On December 18, the people of Qatar celebrate National Day.
This annual holiday is a time to commemorate the country’s unification
and celebrate Qatar’s unique heritage and culture.
N
ational Day is held on the anniversary of December 18, 1878, the day
Sheikh Jasim bin Muhammed Al-Thani, the founder of the State of Qatar,
succeeded his father, Sheikh Muhammad Bin Thani, as the ruler and led the
country towards unity. This national occasion emphasizes Qatar’s identity
and history, it embodies the ideals and visionary aspirations that the country
was founded on, and pays homage to the great men and women who participated
in building the nation. December 18th is the day to remember how national
unity was achieved and how Qatar became a distinct, and respected nation out
of a society torn apart by conflicting tribal loyalties, devoid of security and order,
and overrun by invaders.
In Qatar, National Day is a public holiday and most people are given the day
off from school or work. The celebrations include a parade through the Doha
Corniche, a fireworks show with lights and music, and various festivities focusing
on Qatari traditions at Katara cultural village. Qataris across the country and
around the world take the time to get together with friends and family to honor
the rich history and identity of their homeland.
In the United States, the Embassy of the State of Qatar holds an annual
National Day celebration. This year, hundreds will gather at Washington, D.C.’s,
Ritz Carlton hotel to eat Qatari food, listen to Qatari and American music
and commemorate Qatar’s unique heritage and its close ties to the United States.
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