Muscat is located in Oman, a predominantly Muslim country. There are many different festivals in Muscat. In January they celebrate it with the Festival of the Muscat festivities. This festival is a celebration of Heritage and one of the biggest festivals of the year. This festival consists of crafts, folklore, theater performances, educational seminars, poetry readings, Muscat literature and history readings.
It is both educational and cultural. In the month of March, Omanis celebrate Eid al Adha, also called the Festival of Sacrifice. During this festival any Muslim capable of making the pilgrimage to Mecca does so. The slaughter of sheep, camels and cows also begins. The meat from the sacrifice of these animals is given to the less fortunate. The Islamic New Year, or Muharram, is in April. Any live entertainment and alcohol is prohibited during this time of year. June is very special, particularly mid-June being the birthday of Mohammad or Mawlid Al Nabi. The Salalah Khareef Festival takes place over 6 weeks from mid-July to August. This festival is to celebrate the monsoon season and the cultural heritage of Oman.
Oman hotels are very popular during this time. September sees the Shopping Festival where you can find special offers and the Autumn Trade Fair at the Oman International Exhibition Centre. This Exhibition Center also hosts the Motor Show. The car shows consist of the newest model vehicles and are open to residents and the public for viewing. In the middle of November, about the 18th, it is National Day. This day you can see camel races, dances and fireworks. Eid al Fitr, also in November, is a 3-day festival to celebrate the end of Ramadan. This is a time to enjoy being with your family and eating wonderful traditional dishes. There are no hotels in Muscat empty when these holiday times arrive each year.