National Day in Abu Dhabi

Counting down from 40 days...December 2nd was Abu Dhabi's 40th National Day. This is when they celebrate their countries establishment as a union..similar to our 4th of July in the States.  This country is only 40 years young! It is definitely the most anticipated and celebrated event out here! They decorate the city, do activities at school, and there was even a jet flying outside my window the week before streaming red, green, white, and black smoke for National Day pre-celebrations. They are super prideful. My girls at school started wearing national dress and UAE everything (headbands, bracelets, earrings, socks, face paint) all through November up until Dec. 2nd. They would even carry their flags around from class to class, and draw flags on EVERYTHING we did in school. Many of the girls would wear pins on their clothes, and tell me all about which Sheikh was which. I couldn't imagine our 1st graders in the US knowing so much about the presidents! They have much love for the country.

 Hair Dance

Mock wedding for National Day Celebrations

On December 2nd, the actual day it was like a huge party all across the city. The Corniche, which is the street that lines the beach in Abu Dhabi, was packed with people. Everyone BBQ's and picnics and waits for the parade to start. At dusk, cars jam the street in a huge parade of Emirate pride. People hang out the sunroofs of their decorated cars (which have been like this for the past month). They add decals with UAE colors, Sheikhs, and elaborate decorations. Many of the buildings have these decorations and stickers as well. Kids, and teenagers, run around on the street and spray silly string at people. It is pretty crazy. We walked along, and as much as I tried to avoid it, you get covered in silly string. Some men even hold huge flags out the top of their cars. The great thing is it is all good fun. Even though it is irritating to be sprayed in the face with silly string, everyone is very happy and celebrating. Their are no fights or riots...it is all very controlled chaos. I think that no alcohol being involved plays a part in the peacefulness of this. I would describe this day as a mix of 4th of July, Mardi Gras, and homecoming parades.Definitely an unforgettable experience.

 My honda in the parade

Many of the buildings are decorated with lights for National Day...similar to our Christmas time

Hair Dance at school for National Day