Heads of several Sharjah government departments and entities participated in the inauguration of UAE’s 50th National Day celebrations at the Sharjah National Park (SNP), which started Monday, with the UAE national anthem.

SNP wore a festive look with several stands and kiosks manned by a number of government entities showcasing UAE culture and heritage as well as community initiatives.

The fun and festivities for families and visitors kicked off with a song titled ‘Sultan Al Qoloub’ (Sultan of hearts) eulogising the achievements of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.

A group of shadow play artists beautifully portrayed the story of the UAE’s formation and progress via a perfectly orchestrated theatre show titled ‘Sarray Al Khamseen’ (Palace of fifty).

In his opening speech, HE Khalid bin Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah National Day Celebrations Committee, said that the 50th National Day celebrations are a tribute to the great efforts of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the founding fathers, whose far-sighted vision has spurred UAE’s development across sectors. He added that this historic milestone is celebrated with pride and the UAE looks forward towards promising future.

The committee engaged all segments of society in celebrating this occasion, with shops and kiosks offering traditional handicrafts and popular local cuisine. Patriotic songs eulogising the Union’s achievements played on a giant screen installed in the middle of the SNP, while a zone dedicated to music was earmarked for people to showcase their musical talents.

Children took part in a social education competition at the Sharjah Social Services Department’s stand and another kiosk dedicated to the National Day celebrations. Quizzes were organised for children, with the winners taking home special prizes.

Sharjah Education Council’s (SEC) pavilion at the SNP hosted three activities. The formation of the UAE by the founding fathers was screened as part of the first activity, under the theme ‘My Story’. Themed ‘Play and Learn’, the second edutainment activity served to enhance the children’s general knowledge. The last activity, themed ‘UAE’s Vision’, motivated the children to envision the future of the UAE over the next 50 years.

A variety of folk and artistic performances by the Al Harbiyah band brought alive the unique cultural heritage of the UAE while enhancing the festive atmosphere at the venue.

The military music band marched throughout the park, playing patriotic music that stoked the sense of pride and belonging among the enthralled audience. Meanwhile, an acrobatic band entertained the visitors with their thrilling performances on stilts and unicycles.