Don’t let the heat chase you into Qatar’s overcrowded malls this weekend. There are other options:

• Mother, Baby and Kids’ Show, Doha Exhibition Center. Birth rates have jumped locally some 25 percent a year and this fair will address the economic, social and cultural development of children and their families. Some 170 stalls will offer gifts, books and workshops. There will also be a play area for kids. The event runs from 3pm to 10pm today and 11am to 10pm tomorrow. More information is here.

• International music show, Pearl-Qatar. As part of the Pearl’s ongoing carnival, a jazz saxophonist and bands showcasing music from the Arab world and countries including Russia, Spain and North America will perform on the Porto Arabia boardwalk. Concerts kick off at 6pm on Thursdays and 3pm on weekends. More information is here.

• Heritage Village, near Rumaila Park. The village, which opens sporadically throughout the year, will be open today in the run-up to next week’s Emir Cup. As Just Kooki recommends, “you can walk around the village, drink a cup of cardamon coffee, visit a traditional cafe, and see a dhow being repaired. If you get hungry, huge pots of food from a real kitchen brim with goodness or you can grab a quick snack of popcorn or buttered corn.” Gate is open from 3pm to 3am today. More information is here.

Any other suggestions?

Credit: Photo by Nick Leonard.