Festivals In Saudi Arabia: A Key To Understanding The Culture Of The Country

Saudi Arabia, a destination that boasts of its wealth and architectural marvels isn’t far behind when it comes to festivals. Be it cultural events or traditional festivals in Saudi Arabia that date back thousands of years, this is a destination that has it all. In fact, the festivals in this part of the world are a great way to learn about the culture and tradition of Saudi Arabia.

So, are you planning your vacation in the Kingdom? Well, there is no better time to visit Saudi Arabia than during one of the festivals that take place here. One can truly indulge in the culture and tradition of the country while getting to enjoy a fine vacation. So, here are the top festivals that take place in Saudi Arabia throughout the year.  

Top Saudi Arabia Festivals That Every Visiting Traveler Should Know About

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has all the potential to surprise travelers with its various festivals. Here are some of the top ones that travelers should know about.

1. Jeddah Festival

A festival that started with the sole purpose of attracting more tourists to Jeddah, the Hala Jeddah Festival was first founded in the year 2000 and has grown since to become one of the most popular festivals in the region. It has gained immense popularity to become one of the most notable tourist attractions in Saudi Arabia today. In fact, since Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia, one can only imagine the number of people at the Hala Jeddah Festival.

Interestingly, every year this festival sees a turnaround with more than 200 new additions in terms of the events. One can enjoy sampling traditionally cooked food, buy local crafts, and even watch the fireworks from the vantage point of Deddahs's port Corniche.

When Does It Take Place - The festival usually takes place in the month of Ramadan.

2. Eid Al-Fitr

Not just limited to Saudi Arabia, Eid Al-Fitr is a festival that is widely popular all around the world and carries huge importance for every Muslim. This is a festival that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan when families dress and prepare for a feast with close relatives and friends. In fact, one can call it the main festival of Saudi Arabia when delicious food, drinks, and so much more are being prepared. The festival begins with praying in the mosque and attending a short sermon. Friends and families visit each other's houses and make merry. Interestingly, the significance of Eid Al-Fitr lies in harmony and gratitude when people come together under one roof and celebrate this day.

When Does It Take Place - This festival takes place at the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

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3. Janadriyah National Festival

Another Saudi Arabia festival that is widely popular, the Janadriyah National Festival is one of the largest festivals celebrated in the country today and takes place over a course of two weeks in the village of Janadriyah about 50 KM outside of Riyadh. This is, in fact, a festival that marks the country's heritage and culture. People during this time come together and indulge in a number of activities. Be it the fascinating folklore art shows, or the various cultural events that take place in the country, the Janadriyah National Festival features it all. Interestingly, camel racing is one of the most played sports in the Arab world and it is part of the attractions during the Janadriyah National Festival as well.

When Does It Take Place - The festival usually takes place during the period of November to December.

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4. Eid Al-Adha

Another festival In Saudi Arabia that isn't specific to the country but does play a major role today, the Eid Al-Adha is celebrated by Muslims around the world and lasts for a duration of four days. This is a festival that marks the moment when Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son for Allah. This is the time when Muslim families around the world meet their close relatives and celebrate together. In fact, food in Saudi Arabia is a major part of Eid Al-Adha and one of the major highlights for travelers coming to the country during this time. What is pivotal to note here is that a lamb is usually slaughtered during the festival and its meat is distributed to the community.

When Does It Take Place - The festival is usually held during the month of July.

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5. Riyadh Spring Festival

Organized by the Riyadh Municipality and another Middle East festival in Saudi Arabia is the Riyadh Spring Festival. A spectacle that attracts more than 150,000 visitors to the city, the biggest attraction of this festival is the plantation of more than 1.4 million flowers and ornamental plants that together form a massive decoration. Interestingly, this is a festival that hosts more than 100 different events in multiple locations around the city. Even the themes of the locations are different from one another.

When Does It Take Place - The Riyadh Spring Festival has no set date and can be organized at any time during the spring season.

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6. Unification Of The Kingdom Day

A day of celebration that arrives each year on the 23rd of September is the day of the unification of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In fact, the Unification of The Kingdom Day is the only public secular holiday of Saudi Arabia and is celebrated on the 23rd of September to mark the day when Saudi Arabia was founded in the year 1932. This is, perhaps, one of the most important days in the history of Saudi Arabia. Interestingly, this is the day which most families in Saudi Arabia prefer to celebrate in privacy. However, there are events that are organized throughout the country in order to celebrate the unification of the kingdom. People roam around in their cars singing and waving the Saudi flags.

When Does It Take Place - The Unification of the Kingdom Day is celebrated every year on the 23rd of September.

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7. Milad Al-Nabi

Another festival that is widely popular, Milad Al-Nabi is a festival that marks the occasion of the birthday of the Prophet Mohammad. This is a time when virtually every house and mosque in the country is decorated while children recite poems on the Prophet. Old generations tell stories about the life and achievement of the Prophet Mohammad and there are large feasts that are organized on the occasion. Interestingly, the date of Milad Al-Nabi isn't fixed and varies from year to year due to its accordance with the Islamic (lunar) calendar.

When Does It Take Place - The date of Milad Al-Nabi isn't fixed and varies from year to year due to its accordance with the Islamic (lunar) calendar.

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A country that has emerged as one of the most fascinating holiday destinations over the years, festivals in Saudi Arabia are an absolute treat for visitors and natives in the country. From cultural events that last for days to some of the most traditional festivals that carry immense importance, this is a country that has it all. Want to indulge in the festivities of Saudi Arabia? Book your Saudi Arabia plane tickets today and come be a part of the festivities in the country.

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