The world of joy, fun and excitement of Bahrain Summer Toy Festival is on the go. It is making international headlines as the region’s biggest, most colorful playground for children and for people young-at-heart. Hosted in the heart of Bahrain, this event attracts tourists from across the globe. This festival is happening now and will last till August 5. The weeks of play, discovery, and creative fun, is awaiting to be unlocked. Live shows, giant teddy bears and exclusive toy launches are the major attractions. The Summer Toy Festival is something which is not only a part of a kid's bucket list but adults can also not resist visiting. Read on for the ultimate guide to what makes the Bahrain Summer Toy Festival a must-visit experience this year.
What is Bahrain Summer Toy Festival 2025?
First held over a decade ago, the Bahrain Summer Toy Festival celebrates the art of play and creativity while connecting local culture with global trends. It has grown into a landmark family event, drawing over 100,000 visitors in previous years from the GCC and beyond. The 2025 edition is set to top them all, moving into a sprawling, state-of-the-art venue with double the space, new interactive play villages, and surprise celebrity guests from the toy and animation world. You can witness the exclusive international toy brands making their Middle East debut, and unique entertainment zones. All such amazing things can be enjoyed under one massive, air-conditioned roof. With expanding interest from Europe and Asia, Bahrain is officially the Gulf’s capital of childhood dreams this summer. This festival is happening between 11th July to 5th August at Bahrain International Exhibition Centre.
Main Attractions & Event Highlights of Bahrain Summer Toy Festival
We have compiled a list of major attractions and event highlights of Bahrain Summer Toy Festival. Let’s delve in and know the crucial facts about this interesting festival.
1. Opening Parade & Launch Celebration
The Summer Toy Festival of Bahrain opens with a spectacular parade featuring costumed characters, local dance troupes, fireworks, and surprise guest appearances from much-loved cartoon icons. To enjoy the best view, it is recommended to arrive early and secure your seat.
This festival is perfect for families with kids. At the opening ceremony you can capture the best moments and get freebies tossed from the floats. The energy is infectious, so prepare for lively crowds and plenty of entertainment options.
2. Interactive Toy Zones
At this fun and interactive toy festival you can explore hundreds of toy brands. They set up dazzling booths where kids and adults can take a look at gadgets, build creations, and even meet inventors. This is hands-on fun at its best. You can enjoy robot races, model car building, and slime workshops. Visit in the evening to enjoy a bunch of fun activities along with family and kids.
Suggested Read: Festivals In Kuwait To Never Forget Our Traditions And To Enjoy The Day
3. Live Performances & Puppet Shows
During the time period of this ultimate festival every day features a packed line-up of musical acts, theatrical puppet shows, and cartoon character meet-and-greets on the main stage. From Mowgli to Ninja Turtle there is a range of cartoon characters to attract the eye of kids. Not only kids but adults can also get excited to see all the fun cartoon characters. Check the schedule to snatch a front-row seat. Better to come early as it may get crowded after lunchtime.
4. Collector’s Mini Expo
For die hard fans of special cartoon characters, there is a specific section of the mini collector’s expo. If you or your kid love to gather mini cartoon characters, you must attend this event. You can buy a bunch of mini collectors as per choice. You can also meet fellow collectors, buy, swap, or just admire the displays. However, some vendors may restrict touching the items but you can click pictures. Mid morning to late afternoon is considered the best to visit.
Suggested Read: Everything You Need to Know About Salalah Khareef Festival
5. STEM & DIY Creativity Labs
At this Bahrain Summer Toy Festival, there is a hidden gem for curious minds. The Stem & DIY Creativity Labs invite kids to code their own robots, craft eco-friendly art, or enter Lego speed-build contests. This specific section attracts kids to create their own imagination. This zone is supervised by friendly experts. However, to attend the workshop, you need to pre-register your seat.
6. Giant Inflatable Play Zones
Massive bounce houses, huge slides and gigantic swings are the major attractions of Bahrain Summer Toy Festival. These are kids' favorites but it is essential to book the tickets prior to avoiding long queues. While kids enjoy their playing session parents can comfortably sit in the lounge and enjoy their refreshments. Try to make an early entry and let your kids enjoy their childhood to the fullest.
Suggested Read: Festivals in Bahrain: To Indulge in the Celebrations
7. Merchandise & Pop Culture Market
This Summer toy festival also organizes enticing merchandise and pop culture markets. This market is popularly known for exclusive toys, branded apparel, and festival souvenirs. You can buy all these things from this cultural market. It is best to buy such things from this market at a lower price. You can find good deals at some prime stalls. Try to visit these shops in the morning to buy the best items.
Insider Tips for Attending Bahrain Summer Toy Festival
- Buy tickets online early to secure your preferred festival dates as weekends sell out fast.
- Arrive just after opening hours for easier parking and shorter activity queues.
- The “Sky View” balcony offers the best panoramic photos of all event zones.
- Venues are cool inside, but walking between zones is active.
- Visit the VIP Lounge for premium snacks, comfy seating, and phone charging stations.
- The “Food Street” on Level 1 serves the festival’s best kid-friendly meals (try the Bahraini fusion snacks!).
- Strollers are welcome but can be rented at the entrance, it is ideal for younger children.
- Free shuttle buses run from popular hotels and main bus stations. You can use them to skip parking hassles.
- Festival maps and activity apps are available at the info desk and grab one for hidden surprises.
- Most workshops require pre-registration online or at the welcome desk.
Travel Guide for Event Visitors
- Bahrain offers visa on arrival for most international travelers, best to check your country’s eligibility.
- Arrive 1–2 days before July 11 or stay through the festival’s grand finale for the full experience.
- Hotels near Seef District or Exhibition Road offer family packages and easy shuttle access.
- English and Arabic are widely spoken at the venue; staff are very hospitable.
- Use Bahrain’s modern metro, festival shuttles, or local taxis for easy transit.
- Plenty of food stalls and cafes offer meals, drinks, and allergy-friendly options inside.
Final Thoughts
The Bahrain Summer Toy Festival is more than just playtime for kids. It's a world-class celebration for families, collectors, and anyone young at heart. Don’t miss your chance to make memories, meet new friends, and explore Bahrain’s most vibrant annual event. Book your Bahrain tour packages with Myholidays now and get ready for a memorable gulf summer vacation.
FAQ’s - Bahrain Summer Toy Festival
Tickets are best purchased online via the official event website or trusted partners like Myholidays. Early booking is advised to secure your preferred dates.
Absolutely! The festival is designed for children, parents, and even toy-loving adults. Infants and toddlers are welcome; strollers can be brought along or rented onsite.
The festival partners with local hotels to offer free shuttle buses. Taxis and metro connections are also convenient from major areas like Seef and Exhibition Road.
Yes—Bahrain is renowned for its hospitality and safety. The festival is well-staffed, secure, and family-friendly, with plenty of English-speaking support.
Keep it casual and comfy—smart-casual attire is perfect. All zones are air-conditioned, but you’ll do a lot of walking, so wear good shoes.
Outside food is generally not allowed, but baby food and allergy-specific snacks are permitted. The venue has many food options to suit all tastes.
It’s hot outside (35°C+), but the venue is fully climate-controlled. Bring a light sweater in case you get chilly indoors.
Explore the Avenues Mall, visit Bahrain Fort, or enjoy Bahrain Bay’s waterfront dining. Many attractions are within 20 minutes’ drive.
Definitely—there are rest lounges, cultural shows, and plenty of seated viewing areas for visitors of all ages.
Yes—special rates are offered for large groups, schools, and clubs. Contact the festival office early to arrange.
