In light of recent events, Bahrain's Ministry of Culture will use this year's third annual summer festival to unite Bahrainis in a celebration of hope, love and optimism for their country, Bahrain News Agency reports. As planned, the month-long July festival will honor rich cultural heritages of the world, but this year, the festival will also highlight Bahrain's commitment to a positive and progressive future.
Events under the 2011 festival slogan, "A Victory of Joy," will be educational, cultural and family-focused, and will capture the spirit of this year's theme. Activities ranging from artist workshops and electronic games to musical tributes and Bollywood dance performances are aimed at uniting residents and tourists in an atmosphere of acceptance.
According to Ministry of Culture Public Relations and Media Specialist, Dana Abdulghani, the 2011 festivities will be different "because it is spreading the message of hope and love between people and for people to be optimistic and have hope."
The "A Victory of Joy" summer festival will be held at Arad Fort, Cultural Hall and Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Center from July 1 to July 31.