Eid festivities bring huge crowds to entertainment centres in Dhaka
Business owners noted that their industry suffered significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic and was further impacted by economic challenges and inflation
Entertainment centres in and around Dhaka have witnessed a massive influx of visitors this Eid-ul-Fitr, as families took advantage of the holidays to explore amusement parks, zoos, and museums.
Md Humayun Kabir, who couldn't leave for his village this Eid due to work reasons, visited the Bangladesh Air Force Museum in Agargaon with his family after a morning at the zoo today (1 April).
"Eid in Dhaka has a different feel compared to celebrating in the village. However, this year, the city feels more secure. The children thoroughly enjoyed the zoo. Now they are excited to board an aeroplane, so we brought them here," he told The Business Standard.
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While he acknowledged missing family members in the village, he noted that Dhaka and it's entertainment centres provided an engaging experience for children. "Their favourite experience so far has been the Eid procession."
Humayun's 10-year-old son, Safin, expressed enthusiasm, saying, "We have visited many places, and I want to explore even more. Seeing elephants and deer at the zoo was exciting, and father promised a special dinner tonight. I think I enjoy Eid in Dhaka more than in the village."
With a nine-day break this Eid, families have been making the most of their time by visiting popular amusement centres. In response, parks and resorts have introduced promotional discounts and new attractions to draw larger crowds. The surge in attendance signals a successful Eid season for the entertainment industry.
Amusement parks experience record crowds
Amusement park authorities report that visitor numbers this Eid have surpassed those of previous years. Many parks have introduced new rides, games, and packages to enhance the experience.
Business owners noted that their industry suffered significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic and was further impacted by economic challenges and inflation. However, this year, they are seeing a positive turnaround, with encouraging responses from customers.
Fifth-grade student Jhik Rika, who is visiting her grandparents in Dhaka for Eid, said, "I am having so much fun. I saw different animals at the zoo, and now I'm going to try out the museum rides, board a plane, and ride the Nagordola."
Md. Zakaria Hossain, counter manager at the Bangladesh Air Force Museum, told TBS, "On Eid day, we had around 25,000 visitors, with even more people arriving this afternoon. The turnout has been higher than in previous years."
He added that the museum offers around 25 rides, with an entry fee of just Tk50.
Meanwhile, on the second day of Eid, DNCC Wonderland (Shishu Mela) in Shyamoli saw a massive crowd. The park, which charges a Tk100 entry fee, offers nearly 50 rides.
Upon entering Wonderland, visitors were greeted with the cheerful tune of "Amader Deshti Swapnopuri" (Our Country is a Dreamland), playing as children enjoyed the carousel.
Humayra Begum, who visited the park with her three children and family members, said, "Dhaka doesn't have many entertainment centres for children. Since we are celebrating Eid in the city this year, we decided to take the kids out for fun. After a full day of fun, we plan to visit a cineplex."
Government employee Abdul Moin, who was on duty on Eid day, took his children out on the second day. "We don't get to spend much time with our kids, so today was special. They are enjoying it a lot," he said.
Moazzem Hossain, the manager of DNCC Wonderland, mentioned that while the park may not be as glamorous as before, this year's Eid turnout has been excellent. "Visitor numbers on the second day of Eid were even higher than on the first day."
Thriving entertainment centres beyond Dhaka
Not just in Dhaka, but amusement centres in surrounding areas have also seen a surge in visitors.
Fantasy Kingdom in Ashulia, Jamgora, reported higher footfall on the second day of Eid compared to the first day. The amusement park has introduced three new rides—Drop & Twist, Top Spin, and VR 360—in addition to rides designed specifically for children.
Anup Kumar Sarkar, chief marketing officer of Concord Entertainment, stated, "The past few Eids saw lower visitor numbers, but this year, the turnout has exceeded our expectations. We anticipate an even larger crowd on the third day of Eid."
"All our parks are receiving a great response from visitors. We are hopeful that this Eid season will help us recover from previous financial losses," he added.
Another major attraction near Dhaka is Nandan Park in Savar, which offers packages ranging from 500 to 7,500 BDT, including access to the Water World and various rides. The park remains open from 10 AM to 7 PM.
For those preferring indoor entertainment, Toggi World in Bashundhara City Shopping Complex offers a variety of activities for all age groups. The amusement center features over 150 rides and games, with an entry fee of 100 BDT. Visitors can purchase ride packages or pay separately for individual attractions.
Babuland, a popular indoor playground chain, provides entertainment for children up to 10 years old. Locations across Dhaka—including Mirpur-2, Mirpur-12, Dhanmondi, Green Road, Badda, Wari, Uttara, Laxmibazar, Shewrapara, and Narayanganj—offer trampoline zones, ball pits, and car city attractions. With an entry fee of Tk400-500, children can play for two hours.
