Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) invites children aged 6 to 12 to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure with the return of its highly popular “Happy Holiday” Winter Camp with participation from eight of its Sharjah Museums.
From December 16, 2024, to January 2, 2025, young participants will experience an unforgettable mix of fun and learning, surrounded by Sharjah’s iconic museums offering a range of innovative educational, cultural, and entertaining activities.
Reflecting SMA's commitment to enriching the cultural and educational content for children and students by utilising their school holidays to develop their intellectual and creative skills while raising awareness of the importance of museums as interactive learning spaces.
This year’s camp is designed to make the school break magical, fostering curiosity through hands-on activities that celebrate culture, history, science, and art — all while creating memories to last a lifetime.
The Winter Camp offers a diverse range of programmes, each with a unique theme crafted to spark creativity, critical thinking, promoting diversity and inclusion, and contributing to social sustainability by enhancing community engagement and fostering deep appreciation for cultural heritage.
Whether delving into the mysteries of maritime history at Sharjah Maritime Museum, exploring the wonders of science, or engaging with traditional Emirati customs, children will find inspiration at every turn.
The carefully curated activities ensure a perfect blend of learning and fun, making this camp an enriching holiday experience for children and their families.
Tales of the Fort
The Tales of the Fort programme at Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn), running from 16 to 19 December 2024, promises an unforgettable adventure where children will discover the stories and heroes of Sharjah’s past through interactive and entertaining activities that bring history to life.
Another fascinating offering is Secrets of Herbs and Arts, which will be held at the Sharjah Heritage Museum from 16 to 19 December 2024 to introduce children to the ancient use of herbs and the creation of traditional art pieces, blending natural wonders with artistic expression.
Sea Treasures
One of the exciting programmes, Sea Treasures, will be hosted at the Sharjah Maritime Museum from 16 to 26 December 2024. Participants will embark on a captivating journey into maritime heritage, discovering the role of the tawwash, a pearl merchant, in ships and navigation while exploring the mysteries of marine fossils.
This programme offers a unique blend of adventure and education, immersing children in the wonders of the sea.
At Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi in Kalba, children can participate in A Journey Through Time from 16 to 26 December 2024. This programme provides an engaging glimpse into the lives of ancestors, offering hands-on activities and guided tours that bring Sharjah’s heritage to life in one of the East Coast’s most iconic heritage houses.
At the Sharjah Science Museum from 16 to 26 December 2024, science enthusiasts will love the ‘Scientific Discoveries’ programme which combines education and creativity to offer workshops on toy design, the science of air and lenses, aviation, space exploration, and the art of recycling.
My Grandfather's House
For those interested in traditional Emirati life, My Grandfather’s House at Bait Al Naboodah, from 23 to 26 December 2024, offers a rare opportunity to explore the customs of past generations. Participants will learn how to prepare traditional foods, make incense, and experience activities that combine cultural heritage with fun and learning.
Similarly, Taymiyya School will host The Hurufiyya Art programme from 23 to 26 December 2024. This programme invites children to explore the beauty of Arabic calligraphy and its ornamentation through engaging workshops that showcase their artistic skills and enhance their appreciation for the rich heritage of Arabic art.
Concluding the camp which reflects SMA’s commitment to providing children with opportunities to explore, learn, and grow in a stimulating and safe environment, young explorers will have the opportunity to participate in Archaeological Discoveries at Hisn Khorfakkan from 30 December 2024 to 2 January 2025, where they’ll delve into Sharjah’s archaeological heritage while enjoying fun, hands-on activities.
On the full list of activities, ongoing exhibitions at Sharjah museums, and seat reservations for the winter camp, members of the public can visit the Authority’s website, www.sharjahmuseums.ae.