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Festival of lights begins in Sharjah

Sharjah - Moments from UAE's art and cultural history displayed on landmark buildings.

Children and adults alike gasped in wonder as Sharjah University and the building around it lit up in bright psychedelic colours and patterns. Mosques, government buildings, university libraries, and markets basked in bright colours and mesmerising patterns on Thursday night as the Sharjah Light Festival started off magically.
Residents of Sharjah gathered at Al Qasimiya University in Sharjah University City to witness the opening ceremony of the sixth edition of the spectacular Sharjah Light Festival. Some regular visitors to the festival said it is something they never miss.
Take 12-year-old Mohammed Faris for example. "I've seen the festival several times before and I've never missed a show. The effects are beautiful and I love how they project the lights on buildings. I also enjoy taking pictures of the show."
The annual event draws spectators, photography enthusiasts especially, who come to witness the changing colours and patterns on major landmarks in Sharjah.

The theme for the sixth Sharjah Light Festival is "Travel Across Time". The show aptly displays moments from the UAE's art and cultural history.
One of the attractive aspects of the show is the three-dimensional effects projected on the building walls. "It's amazing how viewers are given a bright and colourful show, including fireworks. Since the fireworks are only a projection, the air is not even polluted," said Sanjay Bhatia, a Sharjah resident and regular attendee of the festival.
Sreerag Ajay (32), resident of Dubai and photography enthusiast said: "I love taking pictures of the festival. It is truly beautiful... Some of my most favorite works are from the Light Festival."
The festival has expanded its reach to new locations like Al Qasimia University, Masjid Al Qasimia, University City Hall, Planetarium, Jubail New Market, Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, Cultural Palace, Kalba Corniche Park, Government Buildings Dibba Al Hisn, and select buildings at the Buhairah Corniche.
The festival has also lightened up other major buildings and tourist landmarks such as Al Qasba (Internal Facades), Masjid Al Taqwa (Al Majaz Waterfront), Al Majaz Amphitheatre, Cultural Square, Masjid Al Noor, Sharjah University - Khorfakkan, Masjid Ammar Bin Yasser in Al Dhaid, presenting several surprises and creative designs.
Festival shows will be held from 6.30pm to 11pm on weekdays, and from 6.30pm until 12 midnight during weekends, until February 13. The festival is expected to achieve 30 per cent increase in the number of visitors this year compared to the previous year.
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com