Kuwait has a self-fulfilling prophecy that nothing happens here until everyone has completely settled into their regular routines after summer. This means that entertainment calendars get loaded up for October, so, it not only feels like things get exciting in October, but is also kind of true. Of course, one should plan events when the largest number of people are in Kuwait. It helps that the weather is cooling down enough to have people come out and want to stay out too.

This is why Kuwait is so incredibly vibrant. This deliberate timing means you can look forward to the cultural season starting up because you know that across the Arts there will be something different for you to appreciate and enjoy. Now Kuwait Kulture will always attest that there is something to do in Kuwait no matter at what time of year, but there is something super special about the Fall.

The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre, JACC, is a veritable hotbed of international and local talent set within stunning, iconic architecture. Western classical music featuring the finest European musicians is always a joy to behold. But increasingly, we are seeing recognition that all audiences appreciate performances that celebrate Arabic culture, and specifically showcasing the Kuwaiti experience. Memoirs of a Sailor, and 80’s TV both previously popular JACC performances, proving that ‘locally sourced’ works for culture too, it turns out.

There are many young, gifted musicians, DJ’s and producers in Kuwait. Now that more venues are willing to open their doors to live performances, this means that these artists have more opportunities to be seen and heard. Which is great for us! Keep an eye out on Instagram for restaurants and malls posting live music events or regular entertainment nights, or go to cafes where this is their focus. The Dar al Athar Al Islamiyah also has a variety of wonderful musical offerings which are free at the Yarmouk Cultural Centre. Don’t forget the seasonal performances that you can set your clocks by from Ahmadi Music Group and Staged in Kuwait towards the end of the year.

Market season is always a joy, because here you find young entrepreneurs and new businesses to support. From crafts to food items there is always lots to explore and you can meet similarly minded people or get involved with new hobbies here too. Often local musicians may get together and gig during a market day, so watch out for these notifications on Instagram as well. Local artists’ booking agency Not Necessarily Famous @nnf.agency is a useful account to follow as they have a variety of artists and events to promote. You may also want to keep checking ticketing agencies like Eventat for all sorts of exciting events covering the Arts to Sports.

While sport may not be part of the ‘cultural season’ per se, it’s definitely part of Kuwait’s culture to have several road-running or marathon events over the Fall. From fun runs to seriously competitive triathlons and Saracen events, this is a really good time to focus on getting fit, being outdoors or supporting those who take part in myriad races. Pro-vision has most of these events online for you to register for or to find out more details about.

The following Instagram accounts will help you stay up-to-date during the Cultural Season: @bazaargram, @livin.q8, @dai_kuwait, @jacc_kw, @ascckw, @ahmadimusicg, @stagedinkuawit, @qoutmarket, @nnf.agency, @eventatkw, @pv.events, @redbullkuwait, @shinsawi. Feature image bazaar cover February 2019.