Families looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Eid Al Adha this year can head to Al Ain Museum, where a packed programme of heritage-inspired workshops, live performances and interactive activities will bring Emirati traditions to life.

Running from May 22 to 29, the celebrations are designed to combine entertainment, creativity and cultural learning for visitors of all ages, all within the UAE’s oldest museum.

The programme begins on May 22 with the Eid Preparations workshop, where children and families can decorate mabkharas and money boxes inspired by traditional Emirati Eid customs. The activity aims to recreate the warmth and excitement of preparing homes for the festive season while introducing younger visitors to familiar heritage traditions through hands-on experiences.

On the first day of Eid, May 27, the museum will transform into a lively cultural space featuring workshops centred around Emirati hospitality and family gatherings. Visitors can join the “Design Your Cup” activity inspired by traditional majlis culture, while the “Al Takiyya Patterns” workshop allows participants to create keychains reflecting heritage motifs linked to social gatherings.

Children will also be able to take part in Colours from Heritage, where they can colour drawings of khanjars and henna patterns while learning more about symbols closely tied to Emirati identity.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the museum will host a live Al Ayyala performance from 4pm to 8pm on Eid day, giving visitors a chance to experience one of the UAE’s most iconic traditional performing arts.

Across the three days of Eid, visitors can also enjoy special “Eid Giveaways,” featuring heritage-inspired gifts including ceramic cups and Arabic coffee infused with saffron and cardamom — a nod to the country’s long-standing traditions of hospitality and generosity.

Beyond the celebrations, the event also offers visitors the chance to explore the museum’s archaeological and historical collections, which trace the story of the UAE from the Stone Age through to the formation of the Union.