Cultural activities, Ramadan nightlife coalesce at park

AMMAN — The culture of parks and the atmosphere of Ramadan were brought to life when Night at the Park kicked off in Amman on Wednesday.

The event, which concluded on Friday at The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts Park in Jabal Luweibdeh, included a set of activities such as storytelling, a literature corner, an art section, musical performances and other entertaining family activities, according to organiser Hind Jucka.

“We wanted to do something that highlights our Arabic culture, so we thought we would do such an activity in Ramadan during nighttime,” she told The Jordan Times during the opening of the event.

Jucka said they wanted to bring attention to eastern music and Arabic art.

“The younger generations are not aware of such aspects of their culture, so we wanted to revive them,” she added.

Jucka said the event intends to provide Ammanis with a different option for spending their Ramadan nights other than attending Ramadan tents which are characterised by loud music and the smoke of argilah (shisha).

George Rizq Allah, a calligraphy artist who is participating in the event, said it is very important to have this kind of art presented during such activities.

“Our language is usually linked to this art which is basically forgotten, and people and institutions are not paying attention to it. Technology had a negative impact on this art,” he told The Jordan Times, adding that these activities help promote this particular branch of art.

Nada Kurd, a visitor who brought along her nephews to enjoy the event, said such activities help shape the character of children as they practise art at this event.

“It helps enhance their creativity,” she added.

Kurd noted that this event brought attention to the culture of parks.

“There are other parks in Amman but they are small and not well promoted,” she added.

Ghaith Bahdosha, who sells books and plays the role of storyteller, said Night at the Park encourages people to read.

“It is very important to do something different after Iftar time and make people aware that they have other cultural options other than having an argilah or heading to a cafe in Ramadan,” he added.