A wintry vacation in AlUla— where dramatic rock formations and sandswept dunes hold 200,000 year old secrets— promises epic adventures, whether you’re a nature lover, cultural enthusiast, or adventure seeker. Plus, the ancient oasis town is playing host to its annual Winter at Tantora festival (which so happens to be the region’s longest-running culture, art, and music festival), which kicked off on Dec. 21 and is taking place until Jan. 27. It is every nature and culture lover’s dream, as the festival’s backdrop unfolds against unobstructed views of the majestic rock formations, canyons, and cliffs that surround the ancient site located in Saudi Arabia’s Madinah province. “This edition of Winter at Tantora is poised to be our best yet and the festivities we have in store will really ignite celebratory spirit with dazzling experiences for people of all interests,” said Rami AlMoallim, Vice President, Destination Management and Marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). As AlUla draws visitors from all over the world, Winter at Tantora is enhancing their experience with a wide range of unique activities and events as well as educational opportunities for guests over the next five weeks.
The Saudi National Orchestra and Choir kicked off the festival on Thursday evening, filling up the streets and balconies of AlUla’s Old Town with a rousing live performance underneath the spectacular starry night. The opening weekend also saw a Jamil and Bouthayna musical show at Maraya on Dec. 22, which was preceded by a mini-concert from Saudi singer Zeina Emad, who performed an exclusive song inspired by AlUla, written by renowned Saudi poet Fahad AlMusaed in celebration of the enduring love story of Jamil and Bouthayna.
According to AlMoallim, “Each edition of Winter at Tantora surpasses the last by weaving together many moments of inspiration and joy.” This year, the festival is celebrating the Year of Arabic Poetry with different activities, like the Poets Parade that took place on Dec. 21 and 22. A collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Culture, the lives and legacies of 14 star poets were bought vividly to life by way of 30 live artists, captivating music, and giant props in the heart of the Old Town. The richness of Arabic language and culture will also be commemorated through a series of educational workshops, exhibitions, talks, and performances running until Jan. 21 that explore the diverse facets of the Arabic language and its influence on art, literature, music, and society.
For music aficianados, Winter at Tantora is an opportune time to catch live performances by renowned singers and musicians. On Dec. 27 and 28, AlUla’s balconies will transform into stages as artists from Egyptian Coral Rouh Al Sharq are set to deliver incredible live performances; Lebanese singer Majida El Roumi will sing live at Maraya the following day as part of AlUla Moments concert series, which also features a performance by Saudi musician, singer, and composer Dr. Abadi AlJohar on Jan. 12. The stunning mirrored concert hall will also play host to the Hegra Candlelit Classics, a concert featuring a repertoire of live classical music performed by pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi alongside a talented mix of Saudi musicians, against candlelight illuminations on Jan. 18, as well as a live performance by the Swiss Orchestra on Jan. 19.
Meanwhile, sports lovers can look forward to the AlUla Trail Race, taking place from Jan. 11 to 12. The second edition of the thrilling two-day-long running event is inviting athletes to test their strength during a series of ultra and half marathons, in addition to a kids’ run, amidst the city’s diverse landscapes, including the Hegra and Elephant Rock trails. The festival is also welcoming the third edition of the first-ever desert polo tournament of Saudi Arabia from Jan. 17 to 20. Set to unfold at the Equestrian Village at AlUla, some of the sport’s biggest names are making their way to the oasis town to face off in a series of adrenaline-packed matches over four days. You also don’t want to miss the first-ever Falcon Cup taking place in AlUla. From Dec. 28 to Jan. 5, over two thousand top falconers will compete to demonstrate their birds’ prowess, speed, and beauty with the hope of winning a grand prize of 60 million SAR – a record in the world of falconry.
If shopping is more your jam (we don’t blame you), then be sure to check out the Tafoni store, a unique retail-themed exhibition running from Jan. 9 to Feb. 25 casting a spotlight on the creative talents of local and regional designers alongside a host of beauty, fashion, home, and lifestyle brands. On the weekends of Jan. 5-6 and 12-13, visitors can buy fruits, soaps, and jams directly from local farmers and family-owned businesses during the AlUla Citrus Festival.
And this is just barely scratching the surface. From unique dining experiences and art installations to an electronic music festival held under the starry desert night, there is so much to do and see at this year’s Winter at Tantora. Trying to fit it all into one article is an impossible feat so for more information and details about the festival, visit www.experiencealula.com.
