Featured
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives hosts memorable Kite Festival for in-house guests
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, a property under Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts – Sri Lanka’s leading hospitality chain – recently completed yet another successful Kite Festival for its in-house guests.
The coveted Maldives resort true to its reputation as a world-renowned adventure and family island embodied the spirit of relaxation and family togetherness with over 50 traditional and modern kite designs brightening up the coast and skies of the island.
“Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives prides itself in providing an exceptional holiday experience to pamper the modern traveller through lavish relaxation and unique experiences,” General Manager Sanjeeva Perera said.
“Located a mere 20 minutes from Male, our adventure island guarantees action-packed water sports and endless fun for every type of thrill seeker, in search of a truly unique vacation that brings together the best of sun, sand, sea and excitement.”
The Kite Festival was set to the backdrop of the cool ocean breeze, breathtaking orange sun, rippling blue ocean waves, and offered a mix of traditional and modern kite designs, with opportunities for guests to experience art & local culture coupled with world-class entertainment.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives also offered guests the opportunity to partake in kite-making and flying competitions (‘Best Kite’, ‘Furthest Flown Kite’, ‘Fancy dress like a kite’) including activities such as face painting and childrens’ games, conducted under strict Covid-19 health & safety regulations and the ‘Cinnamon Care’ program – The Cinnamon Standard for Care and Cleanliness.
“Overall the Kite Festival was a resounding success in which we were able to ensure our guests continued to enjoy their slice of paradise, despite the challenges, while adhering to the necessary safety and health guidelines in place. It is our prerogative that whilst we must ensure the safety of not only our guests, but also our staff, that we do not falter to find new, innovative ways to provide guests with safe outlets to enjoy their holiday with us,” Perera said.
“At Cinnamon we continue to push the boundary to constantly innovate – putting guests needs, safety above all. I am pleased that we were able to create yet another inspiring moment for our guests in accordance with the brand ethos of Cinnamon. We originally began the Kite Festival in 2018, and are pleased to have been able to continue in this annual tradition even under the prevailing conditions.”
The implementation of the Cinnamon Standard for Care and Cleanliness throughout all Cinnamon properties ensures the delivery of a safe and unobtrusive experience for guests, with strict measures in place according to domestic and World Health Organisation guidelines.
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is Sri Lanka’s largest hotel owner with a portfolio of 15 hotels and resorts in both Sri Lanka and the Maldives with a passion for style and a penchant for fun. Adding to its portfolio, the much-anticipated project valued at $1 billion Cinnamon Life Integrated Resort, will be opening in mid-2022.
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.
-
Drink1 week agoGerman winemaker Patrick Heitlinger to headline exclusive dinner at SO/ Maldives
-
News1 week agoNiva Dhigali Maldives to host wellness week with Gemma Merna this June
-
Cooking1 week agoChef Giorgio Servetto brings Michelin-starred dining to Atmosphere Core’s underwater restaurants
-
News1 week agoInterContinental Maldives celebrates Women’s Day through creative expression
-
Family1 week agoRoyal Island introduces Easter escape with up to 25% savings
-
Cooking1 week agoBa’theli by the Reef at Milaidhoo Maldives introduces family-style Maldivian fine dining
-
Family1 week agoGrand Park Kodhipparu transforms into an Easter island wonderland
-
Drink6 days agoGerman winemaker Patrick Jacklin to host exclusive tasting at Constance Moofushi


