Featured
Vibrant festive cheer awaits guests at Seaside Finolhu
Seaside Finolhu has announced its festive schedule for this year’s holiday season.
Guests of the luxury Maldives resort are guaranteed an extravaganza of unforgettable gourmet, cultural and entertainment experiences designed to delight everyone from children to families and from couples to groups of friends.
While Finolhu’s Magic Experience Team always go to great lengths to ensure that every day is full of joy and wonder on Finolhu’s island playground, they have gone the extra mile to conjure up some fantastical treats as part of their vibrant festive celebrations.
In addition to all the usual entertainment and culinary delights on offer at Finolhu, the festivities get underway on December 22 and run through until January 3 with many special activities designed to entertain and delight friends, families and children.

Throughout the holiday period, the in-house DJ will be setting the mood to party time, while the amazing Silent Alarm band will be providing live music at a very special New Year’s Eve event.
For many people, the festive season is all about children, and the Finolhu team have ensured that the resort’s younger guests will enjoy a thrill-packed holiday season of joy and wonder. From the eager excitement of awaiting Santa’s arrival to the playful delight of fun-packed games and activities, there are plenty of opportunities for kids to get into the festive spirit at Finolhu.
The little ones get a chance to set their creative spirit free by making their own festive candles at the Oceaneer’s Club of December 22, while all of Finolhu’s younger guests are invited to join the elves and help Santa prepare for the big day by making some extra special gifts on December 23.
Part of the Christmas Eve festivities include a Kid’s Fashion Show when they get a chance to dress up in their favourite costumes, while the undoubted highlight of Christmas Day for the young ones will be Santa’s arrival ceremony.

There are, as you would expect, a number of activities designed to bring the whole family together as well. Featuring entertainment and games, the underlying theme here is that, “The family that plays together stays together.”
A sand sculpting competition on December 24 encourages team spirit and creativity, while the Christmas Day Glitter Art activities give the young and young-at-heart the creative freedom to sprinkle some festive cheer into their imaginative creations in Finolhu’s Art Studio.
All guests are invited to join in the fun and games at the Family & Friends Fun Challenge on December 26, when they will have plenty of opportunity to get into the island playground spirit by competing against other teams in a series of fun-filled games where the laughter never stops and everyone is a winner.
There is also a chance for all guests to make sure that 2020 ends with a big splash at the Last Aqua Fun event. Those with a sense of fun and adventure can take the plunge and dive into the fun games and performances in and around the pool during the day on New Year’s Eve.
For anyone feeling a bit more energetic, there is even a mini-soccer tournament planned for January 2.

Of course, it would not be the festive season without a few parties and shows. Finolhu’s not-to-be-missed Maldivian Culture Show provides a great insight into the sights, sounds and tastes of the local culture with a combination of the finest music, entertainment and food from the Maldives. Guests can catch the show on December 22 and again on December 29.
In the midst of all the action and games, Movie Night gives everyone a chance to chill out at the Beach Club on December 27 and January 2.
As anyone who has ever visited Finolhu knows, food is a major part of the resort’s identity and guests will have plenty of opportunities to indulge their taste buds during this year’s festive season. In addition to the local treats and delicacies on offer during the Maldivian Culture Shows, there will be a selection of canapés and cocktails served at the official Coconut Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the sandbank on December 23.
However, the real epicurean adventure begins on Christmas Eve with the season’s first big feast. The highlight of the White Party on the beach is a sumptuous Christmas Dinner served beneath the swaying palm trees and with a full evening’s entertainment that includes the Kid’s Fashion Show and many special performances.
The Christmas Day Lunch promises to be a real festive feast with a variety of international specialties served up in the relaxed atmosphere of the Beach Kitchen.

The New Year’s Eve festivities get underway with a cocktail party followed by a New Year’s Eve Dinner. The resident DJ sets the mood, while the Silent Alarm band are sure to get everyone up on the dance floor with their set of international classics. Throughout the evening, there is also live entertainment by a number of surprise performances with details yet to be announced.
As the sun sets on New Year’s Day, Finolhu’s guests are invited to celebrate the first night of the New Year in the vibrant neon glow of the Kaleidoscope Disco. The colourful black light party features a live DJ spinning the tunes in an evening of music and dancing.

Finolhu was opened in June 2016 and consists of four islands with long beaches. It has 125 beachfront and overwater villas (more than half with private pool) and four restaurants.
While popular with honeymooners, the extensive resort is also very family-friendly, with a kids’ club, a wide choice of activities and world-famous entertainment.
Owned and managed by Seaside Collection, a Europe-based hotel group with an exclusive portfolio of high-end resorts and city hotels, Seaside Finolhu Maldives is a luxury island resort. “Finolhu”, which is a direct translation of “sandbank” in Dhivehi is located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives.
For more information or to make a booking, please visit www.finolhu.com.
Featured
Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration
Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.
Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.
During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.
The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.
Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.
Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.
Featured
SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration
SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.
Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.
The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.
Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.
On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.
The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.
The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.
Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.
Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.
Featured
Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences
Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.
The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.
The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.
Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.
The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.
Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.

Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.
Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.
Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.
Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.
For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.
The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.
The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.
Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.
-
Awards1 week agoCentara Grand Lagoon Maldives ranked among DestinAsian’s Top 10 Maldives resorts
-
Action1 week agoCinnamon Dhonveli Maldives expands sustainability efforts with coral restoration
-
News7 days agoMilaidhoo Maldives included in Tatler Travel Guide 2026’s top hotels
-
Family1 week agoEaster at Meyyafushi Maldives blends family fun, dining and island experiences
-
Family1 week agoKuredhivaru Resort & Spa announces Easter art collaboration with Shimha Shakeeb
-
Featured1 week agoAmilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration
-
News1 week agoSun Siyam Iru Fushi celebrates Easter with Salt & Spice culinary theme
-
News1 week agoGrand Park Kodhipparu Maldives launches ‘Connected Island Luxury’ brand positioning


