The second edition of the Mother of the Nation Festival kicked off on March 26 along the Abu Dhabi Corniche. The family-oriented event, revolving around themes of tolerance, sustainability and happiness, and spread across different zones, will run until April 4. Here are ten things to do while you’re there, from the nostalgic and natural to the surreal and electric.
1. Pokemon: Symphonic Evolutions
Fans can witness the evolution of the Pokemon franchise through fresh ears in this video game concert taking place on the Main Stage. Pokemon: Symphonic Evolutions is an orchestral tribute to the franchise’s popular music, such as the Pokemon theme song.
2. Lagoon Walkers
Ever wanted to walk on water? Children and adults alike can tick this off the bucket list inside the festival’s Happiness Zone, by entering a round sphere within the lagoon. But be prepared to roll around a fair bit — it takes some practice to get it right.
Watch: Here are 10 amazing things to do at this Abu Dhabi festival.
3. Astronomy Star Gazing
For those with a yearning for outer space and a galactic experience, this planetarium in the Progress Zone gives you a chance to look through state-of-the-art telescopes. A team of astronomy experts from Al Sadeem, an astronomy group, will help visitors with tips on identifying constellations and planets.
4. PixelPyros
Welcome to the 21st century, where you can control a digital firework display through motion sensors. This large-scale light installation on the Main Stage uses lasers to generate fireworks on a large screen, creating technological magic.
5. Grow Your Own
Children are given organic seeds of fruits and vegetables, as well as their own individual pot, so that they can plant a seed and take home their project at the end of the day. The activity, located in the Happiness Zone, aims to bring kids together in a team environment, while also educating them on the importance of growing food.
6. Parkour, Skate Park & Slackline Show
At sunset in the Progress Zone, this show will take audiences on an LED-meets-acrobatics adventure. Parkour is a sport inspired by military obstacle course training. Here, you can witness parkour players run, jump and tumble through tough terrain.
7. Lords of Lightning: Frequency Rider
This eclectic and electric high-voltage performance, taking place at the Beach Dining Zone, features mind-boggling displays.
8. Tranquil Park
If you need a break from all the noise, the Tranquil Park inside the Happiness Zone gives visitors a chance to escape. Grab a book from a tree branch or join a communal storytelling area.
9. Water Wall
In an effort to highlight the need for sustainability and the conservation of water, the Water Wall in the Progress Zone encourages visitors to place empty water bottles into an interactive wall. The wall will grow with every recycling effort, and will form a message at the end of the festival.
10. Beach Dining Zone
Keep hydrated and fed as you hop between activities. Fifty dining options, including food trucks, pop-up container restaurants and kiosks at the Beach Dining Zone will provide visitors an array of choices from local to international cuisines.
*Mother of the Nation Festival is taking place across the Abu Dhabi Corniche until April 4. Entry is Dh20 for adults and Dh10 for children from 5-12, and free for children below 5. Check out motn.ae for more information.
