The glitz and glamour of Dubai City offers occasions galore for fun and merriment. Blessed with a cosmopolitan culture in the true sense of the world the city is rich in its urban lifestyle, posh events that includes young and old alike and vibrant annual festivals carried on a grand scale. Mulling on the same note, it is important to mention that Dubai Summer Surprise 2011 (DSS), a shopping festival dedicated to the amusement and fun for children during their summer vacation.

For this summer of 2011, DSS brings numerous events with an exciting choice of activities, games and events. Kids have a chance to part take in their favorite event and pool in their creative genes. When it comes to sheer entertainment and relaxation, like every year there are interesting performances lined up by eminent musicians and dancers.

Dubai Summer Surprise 2011 is a ten-week bonanza between the months of June and August. Different themes are dedicated to each week and all the activities are centered on that. The mascot of the festival is “Modhesh” which in Arabic means “Amazing”, thereby reflecting the very nature of this annual shopping festival.



Few highlights and events of DSS 2011 are discussed below-

- LazyTown at Dubai Mall
- Date: - July 1-2

With the cast of LazyTown, that includes Stephanie, Ziggy, Robbie Rotten and Sportacus that have made their way to the town, this event is sure to be a hit amongst kids of all kind. Things to expect from here are the unique antics where Stephanie and Sportacus outwits the vile Robbie Rotten. This is a 25-minute show that brings with it dancing, singing and public messages too.

- Mr Men Show at Dubai Marina Mall
- Date: - July 1-3

The show exudes a charm of its own, as it brings alive characters that are originally created by Roger Hargreaves, in “Mr Men and Little Miss” books where all of them have their own customized house with unusual vehicles. Dillydale is the place where the show is set where Mr. Happy has the first dancing competition named “Dillydale Danceathon”. The point of confusion arises when Little Miss Sunshine and Mr Rude decides to perform on a song, where Mr. Bump falls in a wrong position. With adventure and fun, this event is not to be missed for sure.

- Fantasia at Mercato
- Date: - July 7-16

Mercato is known for its seasonal spirit, and Dubai Summer Surprise is an occasion for it as well. You will find performers all of kinds taking part in cultural events, musicians highlighting their talent and an exciting fairytale for the kids in love with mayhem, magic and frivolous wizards.

- Powerpuff Girls: Recycle Meltdown at Al Ghurair City
- Date:- July 7-17


The setting is a beautiful day in Townsville, until such time the recycling machine stops functioning. Without it, the quaint little town is not being able to carry on with its “Save the Planet” act. Bubbles, Buttercup and Blossom arrives and discovers that a non-recyclable element has accidently got in to the machine. The Powerpuff Girls are now all set to find the wrongdoer.

- Bob the Builder at Mall of the Emirates
- Date: - July 17-27

If your little one has been waiting for Bob the Builder, then he is back with a zing this summer for a 25-minute musical show named Birthday Surprise. Bob wants to plan a surprise party on Wendy’s birthday, but the question is of Spud being able to keep it secret. Your kids would certainly love to join Spud and Bob in this fun filled show.

- Chowder at Dubai Festival City
- Date: - July 21-31

This is the first time that Chowder debuts in DSS, which has been an Emmy-winning American animation series aired on Cartoon Network. The event is going to be based on the first comical episode, titled “The Froggy Apple Crumple Thumpkin”, featuring the funny antics dance, sing, and take part in interactive cooking.

- Thomas the Tank Engine at Mirdif City Centre
- Date: - July 21-31

If your kids are all game for an interactive show, then they will be pleased to meet Thomas, who rescues Diesel. For this, he is rewarded with a tour to Rescue Center and Sodor Search. However, there is more adventure when Thomas is isolated in the ship and is completely alone, stranded in Misty Island.

- Kids Sports Championship – Dubai Festival City
- Date: - July 14-20

Its time to get all sporty and win prized in the Kids Sports Championship this summer. Full of fun, frolic and competition the event welcomes nippers of every age. Exciting events such as three-legged shenanigans, baby-crawling races and dance-offs are a part of the show. Your kids can take their pick.

- Collectors Exhibition – Mirdif City Centre
- July 14-23

This cultural exhibition highlights creative artifacts, amazing wares, and unique collections from regional as well as international participants. It is an interesting plethora of jewelry and fashion displays. Other essential elements on display include cars, coins and decorative those are elegant in their own way.

- Kids Fashion Week – Deira City Centre
- Date: - July 28-31

This is an event dedicated completely to the young and mini fashionistas. The Kids Fashion Week would feature the regional catwalk stars of the future along with the trendy global kids’ brands. It is a must show for all fashion conscious kids.

- Modhesh World
- Date: - Open till September 10 at Dubai Airport Expo

Modesh World is a favorite pick for many, because its air-conditioned and spacious, hence your little champion has a complete world to let go hemselves and run around. In addition to that, there are huge indoor theme parks with thrilling zones to keep them busy for long. Notable places to visit are Modhesh Souk, Lego, arts and crafts department, an ice rink, fun fair, a skate park, a book bazaar and many more. Dubai Summer Surprise 2011 is a shopping fiesta that gives a scope for the entire family along with kids to have a perfect summer outing. There sure is a lot of charm and frolic is enjoying like that of the toddlers!