Tantora Winter Festival, one of Saudi Arabia's leading cultural festivals, will return to AlUla from Thursday 19 December 2024 to Thursday 9 January 2025. Set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the festival blends ancient Saudi heritage with modern entertainment, art, culture and adventure. The festival is part of the larger AlUla Moments calendar and is known for celebrating a rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years.
Tantora Winter 2024-2025 promises to be an immersive celebration of history, art, culture and nature, with unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or immersion in Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage, the festival offers a unique experience in one of the most extraordinary places in the world.
Tantora Celebrations 2024 - 2025
During the Winter Tantora Festival (19 December 2024 - 9 January 2025), the Winter Tantora celebrations celebrate AlUla's ancient tradition of the sundial, marking the start of the winter planting season. Key highlights include:
Cultural performances: Traditional music, dance (e.g. Arada) and storytelling.
Heritage tours: Explore AlUla's history through immersive experiences.
Light shows: The ‘Tales After Dark’ series of light shows that illuminate the desert.
Souks: Traditional souks offering local crafts and foods.
Culinary experiences: From street food to gourmet cuisine.
Workshops: Interactive sessions on agriculture and ecological gardening.
Winter at Tantora Festival Expected Events 2024 - 2025
1. Tantora Celebrations (December 19 - January 9)
The heart of the festival celebrates the ancient Tantora mezuzah traditions that characterise the winter farming season. Expect immersive cultural experiences, including traditional music, dance performances and storytelling.
2. Concerts and Musical Performances
The festival is renowned for hosting world-class concerts in unique venues such as the Maraya Concert Hall, featuring international and regional artists. Past performers have included icons such as Majida Al Roumi and Dr Abadi Al Jawhar, and this season the festival is expected to host even more stars.
3. Jamil & Bouthayna Musical
This theatre show, based on a timeless love story from the region, will be performed at Maraya Hall again this year, combining drama, music and dance.
4. Exhibitions and installations
Tantora Winter will feature contemporary artworks in harmony with the region's desert landscape, offering local and international artists an artistic platform. Art lovers can expect immersive exhibitions rooted in Saudi history and heritage.
5. Outdoor Adventures and Activities
Hot air balloon rides: Tethered hot air balloon experiences and free flight over AlUla's breathtaking desert landscape.
Stargazing: Guided astronomy sessions under clear desert skies.
Hiking and desert tours: Explore iconic sites such as Elephant Rock and Wadi Al Ashar
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AlUla Trail Race: A competitive race through the desert landscape, including ultramarathons and routes for all fitness levels
6. Heritage and Cultural Tours
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Guided tours of Hegra (Madain Saleh), Nabataean tombs, and other historical sites such as Dadan and Jabal Akma.
Oasis Heritage Trail: Visitors can walk through AlUla's lush oasis and explore its rich agricultural history.
7. Gastronomy and culinary experiences
Expect pop-up restaurants and gourmet food experiences by international chefs alongside local Saudi cuisine.
The AlUla Citrus Festival will celebrate the region's agricultural heritage through food tastings and food exhibitions
8. Light Shows and Light Shows
Tales After Dark: An innovative light projection show that brings AlUla's ancient stories to life through stunning visual displays
9. Workshops and Educational Experiences
Ecological gardening and oasis farming workshops: Hands-on activities that allow visitors to learn about sustainable agriculture and the rich biodiversity of AlUla Oasis.
Winter at Tantora is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It is a chance to experience the beauty of AlUla in the winter, to learn about its rich culture and heritage, and to enjoy the company of people from all over the world. If you are planning a trip to AlUla in the winter, be sure to check out Winter at Tantora. It is a festival that you will not want to miss! As you embrace the winter vibes at Winter at Tantora 2024, remember that AlUla has been celebrating AlUla Moments 2024 since September. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these exciting events and get involved in the ones that pique your interest. It's a chance to make your winter even more memorable.
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