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There are few things more enjoyable at this time of year than strolling through an outdoor market and browsing the eclectic mix of wares and toys.
In fact, the one thing I miss the most about being home in England for the festive period is the Christmas markets; hundreds of stalls offering anything from sweet treats to decorations to mulled beverages.
In order to evoke memories of Christmas past, I headed to Diyar Al Muharraq to check out Dragon City’s Dragon Night Market. It may have been a little different, but still just as enjoyable!
The main difference of course was the weather. No longer did I have to take every step with trepidation lest I end up on my backside after slipping on ice, nor did I have to see past my own breath to browse the shelves and stalls!
The night market is a family-oriented outdoor event that is set up outside Gate 12 amid a beautiful Chinese-themed backdrop, reflecting Dragon City’s roots in heritage.
Patrick Zheng Shou, general manager of Chinamex, Dragon City’s operating company, said: “We were immensely pleased with the success of the previous edition of Dragon Night Market and resolved to make this event even bigger and better. As a leading family destination in the kingdom, Dragon City is always keen to host diverting events that offer not only great bargains to our visitors but a chance to create unforgettable memories.”
Bigger and better is indeed what this market is, as everything from Chinese foods to toys based on more famous worldwide brands caught my eye.
I started out at Wei Yi Boutique and checked out their fantastic Christmas decorations, with globes of light perfect to adorn shelves and Christmas trees. There were also shoes and clothes of fantastic quality to rival those of more expensive brands.
One shop that caught my eye was Beit Home, which was littered with beautiful pottery and vases, along with other trinkets that would look lovely in any family residence.
One visitor, Juan Li, was also highly impressed with the exhibitions. He said: “I’m very excited about the night market here at Dragon City. In fact, I’ve been waiting all year for it to open up. Although I love the mall, there is just something special about an outdoor market and the special atmosphere it creates. People can walk about without getting in each other’s way and try out toys in the open area.”
This was indeed true for many families, as during my visit I was almost run over by excited youngsters racing around on tricycles in the courtyard. With the open space in the middle of the market, the children had the time of their lives and had wide smiles plastered on their faces; something which wouldn’t be possible in the narrower confines of the mall’s interior. Kudos!
Although far too big to ride a tricycle these days, I did get the opportunity to race around a remote controlled car. The highlight of this test drive with a difference was when I hid behind a stall and drove in circles repeatedly around a visiting family, who were terribly confused when they couldn’t find the source of this car’s mischief! I hope that doesn’t put me on Santa’s naughty list!
I also made friends with Pikachu, Tom & Jerry, and other characters who turned up in fancy dress. Quite what Japanese and American characters were doing at a Chinese event I’m not sure, but they went down very well with the younger ones!
In the absence of a real Christmas market in the kingdom, I highly recommend visiting Dragon City and enjoying the unique atmosphere generated in this special corner of Bahrain. Who knows, you might find a bargain or ten!
Dragon Night Market will run through to January 6. It takes place between 4pm-10pm every day and features promotions on a wide range of products including electronics, children’s toys, clothes, accessories and more.
