The Minivan Ufaa Carnival, a grand celebration of Maldives’ 58th anniversary of independence, has kicked off with a bang at Central Park, Hulhumalé. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih inaugurated the carnival alongside the First Lady, Vice President Faisal Naseem, cabinet ministers, high-ranking government officials, and members of the public. The opening ceremony was a grand affair, featuring speeches, music, and cultural performances that set the mood for the rest of the carnival.

Offering a plethora of attractions and activities, the carnival promises a vibrant and lively experience of never-before-seen activities in the Maldives, including breathtaking drone shows, carnival performances, laser tag battles, open cinema under the stars, a gaming arena, food stalls, live music shows, and more. The carnival caters to people of all ages, from game stalls to a ‘hall of horror’ for the adventurous, and a food street with a wide variety of delicious treats from local and international cuisines for the food enthusiasts. The Independence Day floats featuring colourful and creative designs will parade through the carnival, showcasing the best of Maldivian culture and creativity.

A highlight of the Minivan Ufaa Carnival will be the array of performances featuring talented performers from around the world. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular shows put on by acrobats, jugglers, and other carnival performers. Additionally, live music performances by local and international acts will keep visitors entertained throughout the carnival.

The park has been adorned with lights and festive decor to embody the carnival atmosphere, elevating the festive spirit of the event. Admission to the carnival is completely free, and visitors can enter a special draw via a QR code for a chance to win a seven-night stay in Bali, Indonesia, as a gesture of goodwill from Ooredoo.

This celebration is a collaborative effort by several organizations, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dhiraagu, Ooredoo Maldives, the State Trading Organization (STO), State Electric Company Limited (STELCO), and the Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC). Their combined efforts have resulted in a spectacular event that promises to be a must-visit for anyone looking for a vibrant way to commemorate the Maldives’ Independence Day.