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Al Etihad
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Manar 2.0 light art exhibition to illuminate Abu Dhabi's waterfronts this November
25 July 2025 00:35 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Abu Dhabi's waterfront will be lit again this year when Manar, the capital's large-scale light art exhibition, returns in launched in 2023 by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Manar Abu Dhabi transforms the city's coastline into a mesmerising gallery of light sculptures, projections and interactive installations and year's edition, Manar 2.0, will feature the work of 35 artists hailing from across the globe, including the UAE, Japan, France, Mexico, assembling an extraordinary mix of perspectives and the names announced are teamLab, Carsten Höller, Shezad Dawood, Ahmed Al Areef Al Dhaheri and Nujoom meaning 'lighthouse' in Arabic, is not a typical art exhibition. The installations will appear across several sites in the city, including Saadiyat, Jubail and Fahid Island, as well as along the Corniche and the Eastern event is designed to be experienced from multiple perspectives, whether you're walking along the beachfront, riding in a dhow, or watching from the year's programme will explore themes of nature, light, and creative connection. The full programme details are yet to be announced. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Time Out Abu Dhabi
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Manar is making its way back to Abu Dhabi and it's going to be beautiful
The capital's coasts, islands and skyline are about to glow once again. Manar Abu Dhabi, the city's stunning light art exhibition, is making its much-anticipated return this November and it's bringing even more magic to the waterfront. Launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) as part of the Public Art Abu Dhabi programme, Manar (which means 'lighthouse' in Arabic) is anything but your typical art show. Think massive light sculptures, ethereal projections, interactive installations and thought-provoking performances – all set against the natural beauty of the capital's shores. Rise 2023 © Alaa Edris Following its dazzling debut in 2023, Manar 2.0 is upping the ante with over 35 artworks from global artists, including powerhouses like teamLab, Carsten Höller and Shezad Dawood, plus homegrown talents like Ahmed Al Areef Al Dhaheri and Nujoom Alghanem. From Japan to Mexico and everywhere in between, it's a lineup that promises to transform Abu Dhabi into a living, glowing canvas. Expect to see light installations ripple across iconic locations like Saadiyat, Jubail and Fahid Island, as well as along the Corniche and Eastern Mangroves. Whether you're walking the coastline, cruising past in a dhow, or snapping pics from dry land, the experience is designed to stop you in your tracks and get you thinking – about nature, about connection and about creativity in all its forms. Stay tuned for the full programme reveal, but for now, mark your calendar. November is going to shine. Summer in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss Psst: This is when summer officially ends in Abu Dhabi No complaints here 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
The Independent
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
15 best things to do in London with the kids this summer
London is a city so packed with superlative attractions and activities that deciding what to do and where to go next can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Such feelings are amplified if you're constricted by time, money or when travelling with children. While the UK capital is home to some of the world's most respected museums, historical sights, award-winning shows and restaurants and all-round vibes, selecting something to keep children of all ages entertained is another matter. Thankfully, we've done the work for you to ensure you have the best trip this summer. Forget Madame Tussauds: we've selected some of London 's most weird, wonderful and awe-inspiring experiences to ensure both you and your little ones are entertained and inspired by everything this marvellous city has to offer, whatever your budget – and whatever the weather. Best things to do in London 1. Ride the world's longest and tallest slide Whizz down The Slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the world's tallest (76 metres) and longest (178 metres) slide. Designed by artists Anish Kapoor and Carsten Höller and architect Cecil Balmond to mark the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, this iconic landmark is located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, east London. Composed of 12 twists and turns, including a tight corkscrew known as the bettfeder ('bedspring' in German), it climaxes with a thrilling 50 metre straight run to the ground. Expect to reach speeds of up to 24km on a journey that takes 40 seconds from beginning to end. Visitors can either take the lift to the viewing platform or tackle the 455 steps. There's also a glass floor to peer through, for those brave enough. 2. Visit a city farm London's 12 city farms are educational and fun green spaces aimed at serving the local community, and home to a plethora of creatures, from the curious to the cuddly. Mudchute Park and Farm covers 32 acres in the Isle of Dogs, making it one of the largest inner city farms in Europe. It's home to over 100 animals and fowl, including llamas. In south London, Vauxhall City Farm is London's oldest, and resident to alpacas, ferrets, goats and more. Visitors can also enjoy animal experiences, including being a farmer for the day, or simply just enjoy petting their furriest residents. Vauxhall City Farm also has a riding school, which is currently closed for renovation until September 2025. Other city farms can be found in Hackney, Spitalfields, Kentish Town, Stepney and Crystal Palace. 3. Watch a film on the UK's biggest cinema screen Towering at an impressive 20 metres by 26 metres, the BFI Imax cinema in Waterloo is the UK's biggest cinema. A 12,000-watt digital surround system makes a visit here the ultimate immersive experience for film lovers, with the sheer scale of this film experience certain to widen young eyes. Films showing this summer include The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Superman in 2D and 3D. From £14 4. Splash out If the heat is getting a bit much (and even if it's not), head to Royal Victoria Dock's Summer Splash. This free, family-friendly experience features lifeguard-supervised swimming, a shallow section for children, sandy play areas, relaxing deckchairs, exciting activities for kids and a vibrant evening programme. Take a load off in a deckchair, take a dip and soak up the views of this vast stretch of open water, framed by the city's skyline. From 25 July to 17 August, free 5. Discover London's world class museums London is blessed with some of the world's most illustrious museums, many of which offer a whole host of activities and experiences to engage young minds, particularly during school holidays, from zine-making to sculpture, collage to finger painting. While some are entirely devoted to children and young people, such as Bethnal Green's Young V&A and Stratford's Discover Children's Story Centre, there are plenty of things on offer at practically all museums to entertain young people and children. From an earthquake simulator at the Natural History Museum, to a now permanent computer games exhibit at the Science Museum, museums are a great – and often free – way to inspire children. Bowling around the cavernous space at the Tate Modern never gets old, either. Many of London's museums are free to enter, but if you want to skip queues or fancy booking an audio tour for when you visit, it's worth checking out Viator's selection of museum tickets and passes. 6. Take a stroll through a treetop canopy Situated 18 metres above the ground, Kew Gardens' Treetop Walkway is a great way to get closer to its world-renowned collection of flora and fauna. Climb 118 steps to discover a complex ecosystem teeming with birds, insects, lichen and fungi that live in the trees' uppermost branches. At ground level, sculptures carved from tree trunks illustrate microscopic elements of trees to explain how they grow. There's also a Children's Garden, which is a fun and interactive space for little ones to climb, run, jump and explore, complete with trampolines, stepping stones, periscopes, hammocks and a living bamboo tunnel. 7. Jump on the Harry Potter bandwagon The magical world of Harry Potter continues to resonate with children of all ages – and there's plenty to explore in London for Muggles and magical folk alike. The big hitter is undoubtedly the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Here, fans can see sets, props and costumes from the hit film franchise and step inside film locations such as Dumbledore's office, the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest. Buses travel regularly to the site from the centre of London, while trains take 20 minutes from Euston to Watford Junction, with regular shuttle buses. And if that's too pricey, head to Platform 9¾ at King's Cross station where you can cosplay as your favourite character and bag a fun selfie. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter tickets from £56; free to visit Platform 9¾ at King's Cross station 8. Get lost in the UK's oldest surviving hedge maze Whatever your age, getting lost in the Hampton Court Maze is an experience you won't forget in a hurry. Commissioned around 1700 by William III, it covers a third of an acre and is known for its confusing twists, turns and dead ends. On average, it takes around 20 minutes to reach the centre. As it's a multicursal maze – meaning a visitor needs to make decisions about which route to take next, rather than simply following a single path – it's great for stimulating the grey matter and getting kids off their phones as they attempt to conquer this puzzle. Children under four go free, tickets for those aged 5-15 start from £13.60, including entrance to the palace, maze and Magic Garden 9. Take a street art tour Score points with teenagers on a tour of London's best street art. Hear the stories behind some of the city's most fascinating artworks, from giant murals to tiny hidden sculptures, on a tour that takes in artwork by Roa, Shepard Fairey, Invader, Stik and Vhils. There's also the option to add on a workshop, where participants can try their hand at creating their own artwork in the purpose-built studio. Art lovers on a budget should head to Leake Street Arches where eight former railway arches beneath Waterloo station now form a public gallery of street art and graffiti for everyone to enjoy. 10. Get building Lego builders assemble! Kensington Gardens' Serpentine and the Lego Group are hosting Play Pavilion, a new interactive play commission situated alongside Serpentine South. This public art project showcases the power of play through a communal Lego installation, brick-building challenges, talks, tournaments, giveaways and a curated range of guests. From 11 June to 10 August 2025. Free play: no need to book – just turn up. Click here for a full list of events taking place 11. Discover dinosaurs Despite dinosaurs going extinct 64 million years ago, they continue to have a hold on the young imagination. Kids will love these 16 life-size sculptures of dinos past and their fellow extinct creatures which have been residing in Crystal Palace Park in south London since the 19th century. The models have their own unique history and were first unveiled in 1854. They have since undergone extensive refurbishment several times since then. They can be found in the south section of Crystal Palace Park, near the Penge entrance. Check out the Friends of Crystal Palace Dinosaurs website before your visit for downloadable information sheets and even an audio guide. Free 12. Take a ride above the city A trip on the IFS Cable Car over the Thames is always a good idea, whatever your age, although sunset on a clear day brings megawatt views of iconic city sights such as St Paul's Cathedral, the Millennium Dome, the Gherkin and the Thames Barrier. The 1km line runs between Greenwich and Royal Victoria Dock and forms part of Transport for London's network, meaning you can simply tap on and off with your payment card. Consider the London transport box well and truly ticked by bagging the front seat of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) for your onward journey to feel like you're in charge of your very own train. A one-way ticket costs £6 13. Shake your tail feathers Notting Hill Carnival is a stalwart of London's summer season and 2025 is no exception. As Europe's biggest street party, it's a celebration of Caribbean culture and the diversity and vibrancy of this remarkable city. As well as some top-class music, food and drink, Sunday is family day, with a host of family-friendly activities, events and the children's parade. Dress up to get down. Sunday 24 August, free 14. See stars Budding astronomers will adore a visit to the Peter Harrison Planetarium at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. Get cosy in a reclining chair and prepare to be transported to distant galaxies, around our solar system, and close to the sun – and even witness the birth of a star. A combination of real images from space and CGI combine for an awe-inspiring experience. There are different shows every day, plus a special show for children aged seven and below during school holidays and on weekends. 15. Hit the West End London's West End is home to some of the world's slickest theatrical productions, plenty of which are created with children in mind. Award-winning shows that are certain to enthral include playwright Dennis Kelly and comedian and artist Tim Minchin's musical of the classic Roald Dahl novel Matilda, the timeless spectacle of The Lion King, which continues to wow with dazzling sets and puppetry, and Wicked, the hit production that inspired the Tony award-winning film starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.
Time Out
13-06-2025
- Time Out
Aventura Mall just got crowned the best in the US—here's why it's a big deal
Step aside, Mall of America. South Florida's retail gem Aventura Mall has officially snagged the top spot as the Best Mall in America, according to USA Today 's 2025 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. It's a big win—not just for the mall, but for anyone who likes their shopping with a side of art installations, luxury brands and gourmet bites. The annual 10Best list is based on public voting after a panel of travel and lifestyle pros curates the contenders. Aventura Mall stood out from 20 national nominees and reigned supreme as the only Florida entry on the list. And frankly, it's not hard to see why. Strategically perched between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Aventura is a full-on cultural and culinary destination with more than 300 retailers, over 50 dining options, a museum-worthy art collection and first-to-market debuts that keep the crowds curious. Recent headline-grabbers? Florida's first Eataly, Kim Kardashian's SKIMS and electric truck disruptor Rivian. And it's not just the big names making waves. Aventura Mall's mix of luxury labels (think Gucci, Hermès and Saint Laurent), indie finds and community programming (like weekly yoga and a robust farmers market) makes it both aspirational and accessible. Add in installations like Carsten Höller's giant chrome slide tower and you've got retail therapy with a side of spectacle. 'This award is a testament to Aventura Mall's commitment to delivering exceptional experiences,' said Jackie Soffer, chairman and CEO of Turnberry, the mall's owner. The cherry on top? The recently added Brightline station at Aventura means you can hop a high-speed train from Orlando or Miami and glide straight into your shopping spree, no Uber surge pricing required.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Yahoo
The best mall in America? Right here in Florida, according to new nationwide ranking
Remember malls? They're still out there, and the best one is in Florida. For decades, the big, air-conditioned wonderlands were the place to be, with shop after shop of fresh new items, a packed and diverse food court and often a movie theater. You met friends there, took your family, saw the new fashions, spent the day, or just sat and people-watched. Malls have been suffering since online sales — where retailers didn't have to cover the costs of renting space in a brick-and-mortar building — took a huge bite out of their revenues. An average of 1,170 shopping malls closed every year between 2017 and 2022 in the United States, according to Capital One, and no new indoor megamalls have been built since 2006. But there are plenty of malls that are thriving, and USA TODAY has ranked the Top 10. The No. 1 mall is right here in the Sunshine State — and it beat the Mall of America. "With diverse selections of stores to choose from, tantalizing restaurants in the food court, inspired entertainment options, and special events and seasonal activities that bring their local communities together, shopping malls are vibrant hubs that offer plenty to enjoy," USA TODAY's 10BEST said in the ranking released June 11. The winners were chosen by USA TODAY readers, from a list nominated by 10BEST editors and a panel of experts. The largest mall in Florida, the Aventura Mall at 19501 Biscayne Blvd. in Aventura between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, is, appropriately for the Sunshine State, half mall and half destination attraction. "Aventura Mall has more than 300 retail shops, experiences, and dining options, and boasts a museum-worthy art collection," 10BEST editors said. "Design features include an art installation and fountain titled 'Gorillas in the Mist,' a koi pond, and a giant, chrome slide tower created by artist Carsten Höller. The Aventura Mall regularly hosts community events such as story time, weekly yoga, and a farmers market. "The Brightline Train, which runs between Orlando and Miami, has added a stop at the Aventura Mall, so getting here is easier than ever." It's known for its wealth of luxury boutiques and luxe name brands — Hermès, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, SKIMS, Cartier, Fendi, Rivian, Givenchy, Tiffany & Co. and more — and its 24-screen AMC theater, more than 50 eateries and world-class restaurants, and spacious play areas, and an arts program that adds over 20 art pieces throughout the mall to your shopping experience. 'This award is a testament to Aventura Mall teams' and tenants' unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests,' Jackie Soffer, chairman and CEO of Turnberry, owner of Aventura Mall, said in a release. 'We take great pride in Aventura Mall's continued position as the best mall for iconic brands and first-to-market experiences, helping define South Florida's place on the national and international stage.' "There are hundreds upon hundreds of indoor shopping malls throughout the U.S., but which among them is the very best?" Here's what readers picked. Aventura Mall, Aventura, Florida Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota Galleria Dallas, Dallas, Texas The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards, New York City, New York King of Prussia Mall, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale, Arizona American Dream, East Rutherford, New Jersey Grapevine Mills, Grapevine, Texas Tysons Corner, Tysons, Virginia Brookfield Place, New York City, New York The USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards highlight the very best in travel, food + drink, and lifestyle. Every week, USA TODAY 10BEST invites a panel of industry experts to nominate their favorite points of interest and attractions across a wide range of categories. 10BEST editors then vet these nominations and select a final set of nominees to be presented to the voting public for a period of four weeks. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Aventura Mall in Florida named best mall in US in USA TODAY 10BEST awards
