The opening day of the third annual 'Bahrain Summer Festival 2011' witnessed huge crowd especially at the tent of festival mascot “Nakhool”, a character symbolizing Bahrain’s tradition, culture and Dilmunic history, set up next to Arad Fort.

The "Nakhool Tent" will host daily fun-filled activities for kids throughout the month-long festival aimed at bringing joy and happiness to all Bahraini families, residents and tourists, said  event organisers, the Ministry of Culture.

Open every day from 5pm to 10pm, “Nakhool Tent” offers children a variety of free educational and entertaining cultural activities designed for the whole family, including art, cinema, music, literature, games, as well as a food court.

The festival is being held under the patronage of Sheikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, the Minister of Culture, under the slogan “A Victory of Joy.”

The crowds enjoyed the opening’s action-packed program of fun activities with “Nakhool,” the organisers added.

Following the opening ceremony, the summer Festival held its inaugural performance at the Cultural Hall featuring Lebanese vocalist Samar Kammouj who paid homage to legendary Egyptian composer Riyadh Al Sonbati by singing his most famous works.

The summer festival tickets are on sale exclusively through the festival kiosk in Bahrain City Center. Events held at the Cutural Hall are free, while tickets for shows held at the BIECC start from BD1 up to BD 10.-TradeArabia News Service