Traditional dances, games, handicrafts and dishes should be brought back to lighten up public parks across the capital after being banned for years.

Manama Municipal Council wants to reintroduce the spirit of "old" Bahrain and ensure cultural attractions are provided for Bahraini and expatriate families.

It says the Manama Municipality banned the crafts from public facilities in the Capital Governorate for years without providing proper reasons, claiming residents have been deprived of enjoying local entertainment.

Councillors now want the municipality to revive the country's traditions in parks starting from Eid Al Fitr.

"Previously, parks were like havens for people, who had many things to do there unlike now where they can either sit to eat food or just practise sports," said councillor Ghazi Al Dossary, whose constituency includes Hoora, Gudaibiya, Diplomatic Area and Al Fateh Corniche, which have the largest number of public parks in the governorate.

"Parks were more enjoyable than malls and shopping complexes even during the hot weather, as families gathered to enjoy traditional handicrafts, local dishes and dances like the Lewah, Ardah, Fejri and Ashoori and even play popular games like sack races and hopscotch.

"We want such attractions to start in Eid and maybe we can have them held regularly over the weekends and other occasions throughout the year."

The council has urged municipality director-general Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa to intervene to fast-track preparations before the Eid holidays in two weeks.

"Parks already have the space and there are many interested to showcase and exhibit, so the matter is just arranging them inside the different parks," added Mr Al Dossary, who is spearheading the proposal.

"Also to ensure that everyone gets the allocated spaces, especially for those who will cook local dishes, as we need to ensure the area is safe and there are no fire threats.

"The municipality already has a list of traditional handicrafts artists, performers and dancers."