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Maneesh Bakshi
Doha
The country is all decked up to celebrate the Qatar National Day (QND) on Monday with a host of programmes lined up to project Qatari pride, poise and prosperity amid the ongoing Gulf crisis.
While the grand ceremonial armed forces parade will take place on the Corniche at 3 pm, venues for associated events across the country will draw a large number of visitors eager to watch cultural shows, sports, games and other activities and be a part of the festivities.
QND organisers have invited people to be on the Corniche at 12pm to avoid last-minute rush.
Besides military parade, majestic display of fly past and aerobatics feats performed by the daredevil pilots of the Qatari Air Force, dazzling fireworks on the Al Corniche Street at 8pm will be the other major attractions.
This year's QND celebrations come amind extraordinary circumstances as the country is under an unjust blockade that has triggered a sense of pride and patriotism among the people of Qatar.
This year's National Day theme 'Promise of Prosperity and Glory' is persistent with feelings of people Qatar at this time as the whole country is gripped by the patriotic fervour.
Darb Al Saai, the main venue of the National Day festivities, is hosting several entertainment and cultural activities until December 20 with much fanfare.
Souq Waqif has been a great attraction for both Qataris and expatriates, who have been visiting the iconic place to buy traditional souvenirs and apparels.
Katara is another venue where many family-oriented events are planned to be held to engage both children as well as adults.
Besides, the Ministry of Interior has designated various venues for different communities to hold events to celebrate the National Day.
Arabic-style tents serving dates and traditional coffee have been put up at the Pearl Qatar.
Hotels all around Doha have prepared special menus to celebrate the National Day. Park Caf` at Museum of Islamic Art has customised 'Cream Puffs' called 'Al Adaam', which have been prepared specially to celebrate National Day with a design inspired by Qatar's national flag.
