What a way to start 2026. Bahrain’s kicking off the new year with fireworks over the bay, winter markets across the city, and a fun long weekend. Whether you’re planning to watch drones light up the sky at midnight or browse local artisan stalls on Saturday morning, the next few days deliver well.
Don’t forget to check out the New Year’s Dining Guide while you’re at it – plan your eve dinners or New Year Brunches before it gets too late.
Here’s what’s happening across Bahrain this New Year’s weekend.
All fireworks displays launch simultaneously at midnight, so pick your viewing spot early. Traffic builds quickly as the countdown approaches, and once you’re settled, you’re staying put.
Eight locations are hosting displays:
The Avenues Bahrain offers waterfront views from the expanded Boardwalk. The breeze off the water gets cold after dark, so layer up.
Bahrain World Trade Centre gives you the twin towers as your backdrop, one of the most recognisable spots in the capital.
Bahrain Harbour sits centrally with clear sightlines for both fireworks and drones.
Seef District’s Water Garden City lets you watch the fireworks reflect across the water, which creates a double effect worth catching.
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay provides multiple viewing angles around one of the city’s prime landmarks.
Between Sheikh Hamad Bridge and Sheikh Isa bin Salman Bridge works if you’re already in the capital and want to stay local.
Bahrain Bay Beach offers something different. Operators like Kashta Tours and Island Activities can get you out on a paddleboard or kayak to watch the show from the water itself.
Marassi Al Bahrain sits furthest from Bahrain Bay, useful if you’re based closer to Muharraq. Note that Marassi is a private venue with access restrictions.
The drone show runs only in the Bahrain Bay area, not at all eight locations.
Typhoon Terrace at the Gulf Hotel is hosting Skyline Grooves from 8 pm onwards. The collaboration with Vintage Thrift brings together music, art, and fashion above the city.
Budaiya Botanical Garden’s Saturday market features 32 local farmers alongside nurseries, apiaries, and agricultural companies. Beyond fresh produce, expect homemade preserves, artisanal soaps, honey, and plants from family-run operations. Kids can join craft activities and learning programmes designed specifically for them.
Hawa Al Manama transforms Manama Souq into a living celebration of the city’s heritage. Walk through Bab Al Bahrain, and you’ll find performances across different eras of Bahrain’s history, showcasing the capital’s identity and diversity through the old market streets.
Read more about Hawa Al Manama here
Chill Café at the Post Museum overlooks the historic Bab Al Bahrain building while serving premium coffee. Open Thursdays from 5 pm to 10 pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 5 pm to midnight. From 1 January onwards, morning hours run from 8 am to 1 pm.
Al Aali Mall’s Winter Market operates nightly from 6 pm to midnight with seasonal treats, kids’ activities, and a festive atmosphere that makes the most of cooler evening temperatures.
The Avenues Winter Village brings food kiosks, live entertainment, carnival games, and a complete seasonal setup from 4 pm to midnight daily.
Ajwa Al Harbour combines live music with diverse food options and Bahrain Harbour’s sea views. Runs from 4 pm to 10 pm with a family-friendly atmosphere throughout.
Mouj w Majlis returns to Marassi Galleria near Gate 4 with outdoor seating, rotating guest appearances, and the kind of setup where you can settle in for the full evening. Open 6 pm to midnight.
Youth Market at Souq Al Baraha supports Bahraini youth-led startups and creative projects through 3 January. Beyond shopping, you’re directly funding local talent and innovative national ideas. Open 4 pm to 10 pm.
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