What’s at Dubai’s Beach Canteen this year?

The Beach Canteen might be the hub of the second annual Dubai Food Festival, but there’s going to be more to it this year than just good eats.

Of course food is a major element of the set up, which runs at Kite Beach from February 25-March 15, with more space than before to accommodate celebrity chefs; they are expecting over 40,000 people.

15 home-grown restaurant concepts and a farmer’s market will set up shop at the free-to-attend Canteen.

Meanwhile, here are some of the other highlights, which include fitness classes, open-mic nights and storytelling by the sea,

Fitness classes: In partnership with community gyms, different classes will be offered each day, including HITT (High Intensity Training); morning, sunset and full-moon beach yoga; and beach Pilates.

Themed open-mic nights: Each Monday and Wednesday. Dubai-based musicians should submit a 15-second video by February 8 to be shortlisted. It’s jazz on February 29; pop and top 40 covers on March 2 ; Latin on March 7; and rock and alternative on March 9. The best performance from each genre wins a dinner at Beach Canteen on the night of their performance.

Story-telling by the Sea: BookMunch Cafe sets up on the beach each Tuesday with books inspired by food.

Design on the Decks: A daytime beach market featuring different design and fashion vendors and a one-day special fashion-inspired menu.

Music and Mocktails: An evening event with international music and mixed fruit drinks.

Food & Film nights: Spend Friday and Saturday nights under the stars with family-friendly films and food to match.