Saudi Arabia’s winter activities continue this year as the second annual Founding Day quickly approaches. Inaugurated in 2022, this annual holiday celebrates the founding of the first Saudi state on February 22, 1727. Expect to witness proud cultural displays of traditional clothes, food, and art, along with exciting activities such as an open-air fair, musical performances, and light shows. To commemorate the holiday, H.M. King Salman has announced February 22 and 23 as national holidays for the public and private sectors.
Open-Air Markets
2022’s “Nejnaj” event invited Saudis and tourists alike to experience a culturally themed flea market. This year, participants should anticipate a similarly exciting event. The event offers guests an opportunity to experience life as a Bedouin through Saudi coffee, food, Saudi-based art, and handicrafts. Nejnaj 2023 is slated to take place in major cities across the Kingdom beginning on February 22.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
Musical Performances
In previous years, renowned Saudi musicians such as Mohammed Abdu, Abdul Majeed Abdullah, and Majid al-Muhandis have all belted traditional Saudi classics in widely attended concerts to celebrate Founding Day and National Day. 2023’s Founding Day concert promises to offer much of the that same excitement. While no official musical lineup has yet been announced, the General Entertainment Authority has stated that an exciting announcement is to be expected soon.
Source: ET Bilarabi
Light Shows
Astonishing light shows have become an essential tool for any official Saudi-based celebration. In 2022, thousands of drones formed multiple images in the night sky, including those of H.M. the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, H.R.H. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the first and current Saudi flags, and Saudi cultural symbols such as traditional coffee pots and palm trees. Drone shows are typically followed by impressive firework displays that are not to be missed.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
Boulevard Riyadh City
Boulevard Riyadh City, one of Riyadh Season’s biggest zones, has become the go-to spot to celebrate Saudi Founding Day in Riyadh! Guests and staff alike are encouraged to wear traditional Saudi attire celebrating their heritage. Guests are free to visit any of Boulevard Riyadh City’s nine subzones, comprising shops, restaurants, and other fun activities, all of which will be celebrating the occasion through Arabic food, firework, and music.
To learn more or to purchase tickets, click here.
Source: Al Jazeera
