Happy holidays

Practical parenting With shows, parties and events for every age group, this week is sure to be entertaining.

AL AIN, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - March 25 2008: A child skates on the indoor ice rink at Al Ain mall. (Photo by Philip Cheung / Abu Dhabi Media Company ) *** Local Caption *** PC120-alainmall.JPG
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The holidays are upon us in full force. A variety of events will entertain all ages throughout the Emirates. With shows, parties and events for every age group, this week is sure to be entertaining.

Abu Dhabi: Join in the festive celebrations at Hayya! fitness club at The Lakes on Friday. The children's Christmas party will run from 3.00pm to 6.00pm, with activities including Santa's Grotto, a bouncy castle, games and competitions. Dh100 per child including snacks, soft drinks and entertainment. Dh40 for both parents or Dh30 per single parent. Dubai: On Dec 22, at 9.45am and 11.15am, join Manda's Magic Workshop. Comedy, magic and festive fun for the family, plus a chance to meet Santa. The workshop is suitable for children aged three and above. Book in advance and as early as possible. For details call 050 456 0413 or email @email:dubaiconnect@helloworld.com. Al Ain: The Christmas tree lighting at the Al Ain Rotana will take place from 5.00pm to 8.00pm on Thursday and will include a visit from Santa.

Dubai: The classic children's pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk will be running from Dec 21 to Jan 2 at the Madinat Theatre. There are both afternoon (3.30pm) and evening (7.30pm) shows and tickets cost Dh135 for adults and Dh100 for children. See @email:www.madinattheatre.com for details. Abu Dhabi: Visit the grotto at the Abu Dhabi Mall until Dec 24. Santa will be available to chat to kids in the Christmas Village. A bazaar with stocking fillers for sale is running at the mall until Dec 31. Al Ain: Join the Rugby club Christmas party on Dec 20 at 3pm. Santa will be making an appearance. Tickets must be purchased by tomorrow and cost Dh20.

Abu Dhabi: On Friday, the Hilton Abu Dhabi will hold a night of carols from 6:15pm. Admission is free and a variety of bands, choirs and dance troupes will perform. Call 02 681 1900 for details. Dubai: Get into the festive spirit at Jam Jar with the cartoonist Joanne Brooker, who will be demonstrating how to create cartoons of Santa, elves, fairies and more. The workshop is aimed at seven to 12-year-olds and will take place on Monday and Dec 23 from 10am to 11am. For bookings call 04 341 7303 or email @email:nerissa@thejamjardubai.com. Dh100 per child. Al Ain: Visit Al Ain mall and go ice skating at the rink. Sessions are in two-hour blocks from 10.00-12.00pm, 12.00-2.00pm, 2.00-4.00pm or 6.00-8.00pm. Charges are Dh25 without support or Dh32 with a support.

Dubai: Favourite Things will be having a Christmas party tomorrow, featuring the debut of a puppet show, a holiday dance and singalong and an appearance from Santa. Treats and goody bags will be available. First session: 4.00-6.00pm (first hour play, second hour party). Second session: 5.00-7.00pm. Member rate: Dh50 per child. Non-member rate: Dh90 per child (adults not charged). Buy your tickets early to avoid disappointment. Call 04 345 2725 for details.