AlUla, December 16, 2024 – The much-anticipated Winter at Tantora festival is returning for another unforgettable season, promising visitors a spectacular blend of cultural experiences, world-class musical performances, and immersive activities that celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant future of Saudi Arabia. This year’s festival, which will run from December 19, 2024, to January 11, 2025, is poised to be a celebration of AlUla’s natural beauty, creativity, and cultural significance, bringing together both history and modern entertainment in one captivating event.
Set against the backdrop of AlUla’s breathtaking landscapes, Winter at Tantora invites visitors to explore this historic region, which is home to some of the world’s most significant ancient civilizations. Known as a cultural crossroads and a sanctuary for travelers throughout history, AlUla’s remarkable heritage and stunning natural beauty make it the perfect venue for a festival that honors both the past and present. This year’s event draws inspiration from AlUla’s storied history while highlighting Saudi Arabia’s flourishing cultural scene, offering an exceptional fusion of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity.
The festival promises to deliver a wide range of experiences designed to engage and inspire visitors. Guests will have the opportunity to experience AlUla’s rich history firsthand through immersive outdoor sets and performances, where the region’s heritage is brought to life in an interactive theatre experience. Advanced projections and digital installations will further blur the lines between spectator and participant, allowing attendees to become part of the story in a way that is both captivating and educational.
A major highlight of this year’s Winter at Tantora will be the “Year of the Camel” celebration at Sanaam AlUla Night, a spectacular event that will feature live music, camel-inspired culinary delights, traditional Saudi coffee, dates, and a stunning camel show and parade. This celebration will highlight the region’s deep-rooted relationship with camels, which have been integral to the culture and history of AlUla for centuries.
The Tantora Old Town Celebrations will transform AlUla’s historic Old Town into a vibrant living museum. This unique celebration will offer an array of engaging activities, including craft workshops, masterclasses, and storytelling sessions, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the traditional arts and culture of the region. The interactive experiences will provide a fun and educational opportunity for families and visitors of all ages to engage with AlUla’s diverse cultural heritage.
The festival also features a series of Maraya Classical Concerts, set to take place at the world-renowned Maraya venue. As the world’s largest mirrored building, Maraya provides an awe-inspiring setting for three exclusive classical music performances, showcasing some of the finest talent in the genre. These concerts will offer guests a rare opportunity to experience world-class music in one of the most innovative venues on the planet.
For those interested in exploring AlUla’s historical significance, the “In the Footsteps of Ibn Battuta” experience will take visitors on a fascinating journey through the region’s Old Town and Oasis. Inspired by the legendary 14th-century explorer Ibn Battuta, the tour will offer an in-depth look at AlUla’s past, taking guests through the same paths that the explorer once traveled.
In addition to the public festivities, Winter at Tantora also offers a range of premium experiences. The “Wedding Guest Experience” will provide an exclusive insight into Saudi wedding traditions, offering visitors a chance to learn about the country’s rich cultural practices. Several workshops will allow participants to gain hands-on experience in traditional crafts, such as palm leaf weaving, ceramics making, and the preparation of Saudi coffee—essential elements of Saudi culture. These activities will provide a deeper connection to the heritage of the region.
Throughout the festival, guests will also enjoy delicious traditional meals, live music performances, and other cultural activities, all designed to create an unforgettable experience in AlUla. Winter at Tantora is more than just a festival; it is a unique opportunity for visitors to understand Saudi culture, explore its history, and engage with the local community in a meaningful and immersive way.
The event also underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote its rich cultural heritage while showcasing its modern achievements in arts, entertainment, and hospitality. As the country continues to evolve and transform under the Vision 2030 initiative, festivals like Winter at Tantora play a pivotal role in highlighting the nation’s dynamic cultural scene.
For more information about the full range of experiences offered at Winter at Tantora, visitors are encouraged to visit the official website at [experiencealula.com](http://experiencealula.com), where they can explore all the exciting events and activities planned for this year’s festival.
