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Living up to its status as one of the biggest shopping extravaganzas in the world, the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) will be ensuring a series of spectacular journeys for residents and visitors from around the world at its milestone 20th edition. One such DSF itinerary for families is the Journey into the Unique which will soon unfold a host of one-of-a-kind attractions that are set to entertain guests of all ages and nationalities.
Organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), the 20th edition of DSF will take place from 1 January to 1 February, under the special theme 20th Anniversary A Journey of Celebrations.
With the special preparations in full swing already, Dubais lively landscape is soon to be transformed into a fantastic kaleidoscope of colours, lights and decorations that will enhance the joyful vibe of the city to usher in the much-awaited edition of one of the longest running festivals of its kind in the world. The citys prominent streets, promenades, shopping malls, souks and other areas will light up the celebratory ambience in every nook and corner of the city, as it invites the world to make the most of the citywide DSF offerings.

Young ones and those young at heart can gear up to watch their favourite Smurfs characters live on stage during their World Premiere show at Dubai World Trade Centre. From grand outdoor lifestyle and community events such as Market Outside the Box (OTB) and Ripe Food & Craft Market to crowd-favourite destinations like Global Village and Carpet & Arts Oasis that bring to life the diversity and heritage of Dubai and Giuliana Rancics first ever Pop-up Shop in Dubai families can also look forward to experiencing the unique element of DSF in various ways throughout the 32-day extravaganza.
Set to be the biggest in the festivals history, with an exciting calendar of events in store that celebrate the key pillars of Shopping, Winning and Entertainment, the 20th edition of DSF will offer over 150 citywide events, mega attractions and numerous shopping opportunities and winning options for visitors and residents from around the world.

Celebrity Pop-up Shop
(Giuliana & Bill Rancic G by Giuliana Rancic)

1-17 January, The Beach Opposite JBR

Dubai is gearing up to welcome the US power couple Giuliana and Rancic Bill to the city for the first time ever. Style-savvy residents can look forward to the G by Giuliana Rancic Pop-up Shop a temporary concept store based in The Beach Opposite JBR where the style icon will unveil the new collection from her line for the first time to the world on 1 January after the couple hosts the spectacular New Years Eve countdown event in Meydan on 31 December. In addition, the couple will participate in various activities including co-hosting Virgin Radios morning show on 30 December and various other activities such as an interactive styling event followed by a Meet and Greet session with fans.

Market Outside The Box (Market OTB)
15-24 January, Southridge Park, Downtown Dubai

Market Outside the Box (OTB) the regions first sustainable fashion and lifestyle marketplace featuring retailers operating out of stylishly refurbished shipping containers is returning this year, much to the delight of shoppers looking to pick up a wide selection of sustainably produced fashion items, accessories, jewelry, shoes, bags, home dcor, stationery and beauty products, in addition to organic food concepts. Musical stage performances, film screenings, workshops and industry-specific interactive sessions at Market OTB for families and individuals will add to the overall excitement in a lively al fresco setting.

Smurfs Live on Stage World Premiere
16-19 January, Hall 8, Dubai World Trade Centre

One of the main attractions of DSF 2015, the world premiere of Smurfs Live on Stage will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Catch the world famous Smurfs live in action in Dubai as they weave a magical music story that is bound to enthrall fans and families. Smurfs Live on Stage will have four shows during DSF, each show being of 90 minutes duration.

Ripe Food & Craft Market
1, 2, 3, 9, 16, 23, 30 January, Gate 1, Zabeel Park
The Ripe Food & Craft Market is a unique community event, offering a platform for talented local artisans and small business owners to showcase their businesses in an informal market environment, to both the local and expat community. After a healthy shopping spree with family and friends at the Market, visitors can round up the evening with WNO Orchestra the opening event of DSF 2015 taking place on 1 January which is inviting residents and guests to kick off the first evening of the New Year on a musical note with celebrated musicians and orchestra members.

Global Village
Until 11 April, 2015

The Global Village is Dubais leading family entertainment and cultural attraction, featuring a unique shopping experience at several pavilions, each representing a different country. Visitors to Global Village are welcomed into a diversified but united world of joy, colours and rhythms to explore the world, one pavilion at a time. Launched in 1997, the Global Village is the place to enjoy and savour the international flavours of multiple cultures from around the world in surroundings that serve up a unique mlange of experiences including numerous native cuisines, dance forms, costumes, handicrafts and much more. Global Village timings are from 4pm to 12am Saturday to Wednesday, 4pm until 1am on Thursdays and Fridays while Monday is a Family Day (except public holidays). DSF information booths will be set up at Global Village along with a stage to hold the daily DSF Mega Raffle draws.

Carpet & Arts Oasis
1 January 1 February, Dubai Festival City

The Carpet & Art Oasis is a not-to-be-missed exhibition of some of the rarest, largest, and most unique carpets and rugs from various well-known carpet producing countries of the world. Showcasing a choicest selection of unique pieces, each offering its own charm with amazing designs and striking patterns, the Carpet & Arts Oasis offers visitors the chance to add elements of artistic decoration to their homes with a diverse line-up of art works and handicrafts also on sale.

Zabeel Park Fiesta
1 January - 1 February, Zabeel Park

Families can head to the Zabeel Park in Dubai to celebrate plenty of fun-filled events. In addition to live music by the world-class WNO Orchestra on 1 January and the exciting Ripe Food & Craft Market, visitors can treat themselves to a number of family-friendly activities, watch the The Masters of the House musical show and amusing circus performances while children can participate in various fun competitions.

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