Food, culture and tradition – recipe For success

After a gap of three years, Muscat Festival - re-branded as Muscat Nights - has returned to woo citizens and residents. Running from January 19 till February 4, the event focuses on youth. The festivities, spread over 17 days, are being held at four locations: Qurum Park, Naseem Garden, Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre and Oman Automobile Association.

How can Muscat Nights be made more attractive? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said on the matter:

Kaleem ahmed Businessman

One of the best ways to promote the festival is to have more international pavilions like earlier, when it was called Muscat Festival. If that is challenging and difficult, embassies in Oman can set up stalls showcasing their culture. Also, there can be more rides and games for families.

taiq al Busaidi Private sector employee

I believe that one of the best ways is to have more food stalls. I have seen that the food stalls at Muscat Nights are general ones serving fare that we can have in any restaurant in and around our city. Food always attracts people and having new dishes from different countries will attract more visitors. And yes, prices need to be reasonable.

Mohammad ahmed al hinai Advertising professional

This year, I am very happy with the addition of modern features like car shows and virtual reality games. But at the same time, I am disappointed that the traditional village section is almost nonexistent. We do not get to see much of the village life and our children only visit the interiors during festivals. Chances like this must never be missed to showcase traditional village life. There must be a good blend between modernity and traditions.

Kiran choudhury Homemaker

Muscat nights can be made more attractive by introducing more cultural events, quiz programmes and visual shows on Oman. Moreover, transport arrangement should be made for visitors to the festival. Package tours for schools and offices should also be planned

ruskeen s

Private sector employee

Include more popular international artists, particularly from the Arab Gulf, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Easy accessibility and childrenfriendly daytime activities will attract people from far and near.

Jay prakash Private sector employee

Muscat’s infrastructure is renowned and has the potential to organise any kind of event. In this event, the primary focus should be on football, hockey and tennis. Apart from these, international artists like the Korean band BTS and classical music maestros should be invited to perform. Additionally, food shows and carnivals focusing on Oman should be the highlight of these festivals. A combination of all of these will make the event more attractive.