BAHRAIN’S Summer Wonders 2004 expects to attract more than a million people.

The festival is being held from August 5 to September 4 and is expected to be a big hit among local and regional visitors. Information Minister Nabeel Al Hamer said the festival would positively contribute to the tourism, economic and trade sectors in Bahrain. He praised the role of the private sector in sponsoring such important events, which would help boost tourism.
Information Under-Secretary Mahmood Al Mahmood said: 'The hotels and airlines involved in the project will offer attractive offers to visitors to Bahrain. Entry fees to the festival will be minimal to attract the largest number of people.' He added that the festival was in line with the directives of the Kingdom’s leadership to promote high standard tourism. The ministry would not hesitate to support any projects that benefit the country, he said. Al Mahmood added that the festival is being organised at the most optimum time, since most people in Bahrain and the Gulf would have returned from their vacations abroad. He said organisers chose closed areas to host the festival's activities to avoid the summer heat.
Bahrain’s Summer Wonders will include a circus, women’s car rally, a Syrian heritage festival, hot air balloons, 3D cinema, synchronised swimming and shows by the strongest man, monster cars, dwarfs and motorcycles, among others. Activities for children include plays, fashion shows and fun fairs.