Qatar National Day celebration ideas for kids, schools and compounds

Planning guide by Show Qatar·Updated 12 November 2026·5 min read

Qatar National Day is celebrated on 18 December. For a few days the country turns maroon and white: flags on cars and buildings, children in national dress, and celebrations in schools, compounds and workplaces. It also falls in the best weather of the year, so it is the season for outdoor events. Here are ideas for marking it with children, wherever you are celebrating.

At school and nursery

• A show in Arabic or English in the hall, one year group at a time so every child can see.
• National dress day with a parade through the classes.
• Maroon-and-white balloon decoration for the entrance and the stage.
• Face painting with the flag and its colours.
• Craft tables: flags, badges and cards to take home.

Schools usually celebrate in the days before the 18th, and many want the same mornings. Our guide to school and nursery events has a checklist for coordinators.

In compounds and residential communities

December evenings are ideal for a family day on the lawn. A typical programme: games for the children in the late afternoon, a show before sunset, then food stations and music. An outdoor evening also suits a fire show as the finale, in an open area.

At home with family and friends

• Decorate one corner in maroon and white for photos.
• Invite the neighbours’ children for an afternoon in the garden or yard.
• A short show gives the gathering a centrepiece; choose Arabic or English.
• A craft table keeps small hands busy before and after.

Company family days, malls and hotels

Many companies hold a family celebration for their teams, and malls and hotels run programmes across the holiday. For several shows a day, a children’s zone or a multi-day programme, request a quote. Larger acts such as parades and light shows are in the big productions catalogue.

Shows you can book

Shows are in Arabic or English at the same price (both languages in one show is an option with a surcharge), indoors or outdoors; the fire show is outdoor only.

Timing and booking

1. As early as you can: fix the date. Prices on 18 December can be higher; the booking page always shows your exact price.
2. Two weeks before: confirm the number of children and order decoration.
3. The week before: arrange access for the crew with school or compound security.
4. On the day: for an outdoor event, plan the show before sunset and keep an indoor back-up in case of rain.