A Vibrant Winter at Tantora

The Winter at Tantora Festival is set to bring AlUla to life once again from 19th December to 11th January, inviting exploration, discovery and immersion in Saudi culture

Held in one of the country's most historically rich regions, the Winter at Tantora Festival celebrates the unique culture and heritage of AlUla, offering Saudi travellers a deep dive into the region’s past and a chance to engage in the vibrancy of their nation.

This festival builds on the history of the traditional sundial in AlUla’s Old Town, where locals celebrated the return of winter and the start of the harvest season. The multicultural events ensure that Saudi visitors and global travelers can look forward to a variety of experiences that showcase AlUla’s natural beauty and offer opportunities for unforgettable memories.

The celebrations begin in AlUla’s Old Town, with Tantora Celebrations taking place around the Tantora. Here, visitors can enjoy handcrafted art, traditional cultural dances, masterclasses, and storytelling, all coming together to create a living museum.

One of the musical highlights of the festival and representing the Maraya Classical Concert Series, will be the debut of Lebanese singer Abeer Nehme and the National Arab Orchestra in AlUla, bringing classical Arabic melodies to the ancient city. Fans of iconic Arabic music can also look forward to the MACINTOSH show, featuring contemporary regional talents Saber Rebai, Zeina Imad, Aziz Maraka, and Daffy performing timeless hits under the direction of maestro Ahmad Al Oud. A special collaboration between Lebanese artist Marwan Khoury and Croatian cellist HAUSER will add a unique cultural fusion to the lineup, blending Arab and European sounds.

Beyond music, the festival presents cultural and cinematic delights. The Immersive Theatre Experience, for instance, transforms movie-going into a multisensory experience that merges film and theatre in a captivating way. The Sanaam AlUla Night celebrates Saudi culture and highlights the Saudi Year of the Camel, with traditional performances, while "In the Footsteps of Ibn Battuta" offers visitors a tour through AlUla’s historic trade routes.

Visitors can also explore the city's agricultural heritage through the AlUla Citrus Festival, where they can sample locally grown produce and learn about the 29 varieties of citrus unique to the region. Children and adults alike will enjoy the Almanshiya Carnival, an exciting experience bringing families together with its games, shows, and entertainment.

Winter at Tantora promises an enriching experience that seamlessly combines AlUla's ancient history with contemporary celebrations, making it an unmissable event for Saudi travellers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Visit experiencealula.com to know more about Winter at Tantora.