One always jumps to a world of magic and fantasy when it comes to Dubai, the city which has changed over a short period of time from vast areas of sand into a vibrant city and a destination visited by a constantly increasing number of tourists. It has indeed emerged into a truly cosmopolitan city, which goes by the motto of living life to the fullest. Hence, when one hears of Maifest in Dubai, originally a German festival, one's mind swells with visions of how perfect it would be and how people would line up to enjoy its multi-faceted charm, as an ode to spring and as an ode to life itself. Maifest is the traditional German celebration that marks the arrival of spring and it is back at Grand Hyatt Dubai for its sixth year running.
Maifest (Mayfest) is one of mankind’s oldest traditions! It is the celebration of nature’s bright re-awakening after winter’s cold darkness. In Germany, the ritualistic significance has not faded, even though the religious aspect has. During Maifest, cities and villages are bedecked with colorful drapery and flowers. Some areas light bonfires, while others open the carnival fair season and elect May queens and kings. One commonality shared among most regions is the retention of the Maibaum (Maypole).
Just like Maifest, Oktoberfest also originated in Germany. In fact, it was the original export from Germany to Dubai! Oktoberfest takes place in Munich, Germany from mid-September to the first week in October and is one of the most attended events in the world. The event takes place in a designated festival area called Theresienwiese and is free to the public. The crowds go crazy drinking to their hearts' content and enjoy themselves to the fullest!
Dubai festivals are popular across the world, such as Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Marathon and Dubai Dessert Festival. All of these are celebrated on a big scale, with plenty of food, drinks and colours thrown in for extra effect! Maifest is no different from these other festivals. It is also a festival which partakes of yummy edibles like pretzels, cupcakes etc.and has the added theme of dressing up, which makes it stand out even more! Overall, Dubai's connection with Maifest is not arbitrary. The cultural ties which bind Dubai to Germany are strong and both countries share a love for partying, indulging in excesses, hedonistic pleasures etc. Dubai has taken to Maifest like fish to water.
Spring is one of the most-awaited seasons of the year in Dubai. There’s a whole sun-fed lushness trying to break out of the earth and swallow the town. It is splashed with colour, decked with the love of youth, and considered as the epitome of all things dewy and beautiful. Maifest is popular in Dubai because it heralds the advent of spring with bright colours. It promises a lot of fun!
Dubai has really taken to Maifest with a vengeance! The simple reason is, Dubai loves to party and Maifest is all about good times with a capital T! The sun is out, the wildflowers are bursting, and Dubai is truly a cosmpolitan city which likes to imbibe the best of international traditions and hospitality. There is enough merriment to go around, especially as socializng with tourists and making merry are part and parcel of this festival!
Do you have something interesting you would like to share? Write to us at [email protected]