Visitors were drawn to the Al Liwan cultural event, which was held here to honour Saudi Arabia’s “Founding Day” because it brought together the nation’s three centuries of history, tradition, and growth through modern infrastructure.
The event, which was held in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, at the King Abdullah Financial District, highlighted the vibrancy of traditional markets and the creativity of traditional Saudi dress. In 14 sites, the celebration of Saudi Arabia’s “Founding Day” was held. After a royal proclamation by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Foundation Day, which is observed on 22 February to honour Imam Mohammed bin Saud’s founding of the nation, was made a national holiday last year.
In addition to interactive exhibitions, cultural seminars, and historical theatrical performances were also organised.
Attired in traditional citizens of the country with their families and visitors from other countries were seen in the event rejoicing the celebrations.
“It’s a proud moment for all Saudi Arabia citizens as this is the celebration of its ‘Founding Day’.
A surprising growth is visible here in the last five years and we hope for better growth of the country in coming years,” Reema, a resident said adding “Saudi Arabia and India have a great relationship”.
Parade, balloon flights, painting competitions, melodies and family events were also among other engagements across the nation as Saudi Arabia on Wednesday marked its second ‘Founding Day’ celebrations highlighting its 300 years of history through culture and artistic events activities and a four-day holiday.
The Kingdom’s capital rang in ‘Founding Day’ celebrations with parades and live performances in locations across the city. Streets filled with celebration as families dressed in traditional attire gathered to watch.
The Ministry of Culture held a musical theatre performance highlighting the history of Saudi Arabia in Princess Nourah University’s Red Hall. The show premiered on 20 February and will continue until 27 February.
The Ministry also hosted a parade at the intersections of Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road and King Salman Road in Riyadh featuring Arabian horses, traditional attire and colourful performances highlighting three centuries of the Kingdom’s history.
The historical site Diriyah hosted a ‘Founding Day’ parade and other family activities in four locations, including JAX Park and Riyadh Skate Park.
One of the most popular family festivities was the Majlis, an educational event spotlighting the heritage and culture of the First Saudi State through lectures, panel discussions and workshops hosted in King Fahd National Library.