Winter at Tantora: A Celebration of AlUla’s Cultural Heritage
The Winter at Tantora Festival will return to AlUla in December, bringing an extravaganza of vibrant experiences that combine the region’s ancient history and rich culture.
From December 19, 2024 to January 11, 2025, residents and tourists of AlUla will indulge in a unique blend of history, culture, music, and culinary delights that reflect the authenticity of the region and evoke its magic.
Winter at Tantora
The much-awaited festival celebrates AlUla’s heritage and traditions. The word “tantora” refers to the traditional sundial, located in the Old Town, which residents used over the centuries to mark the beginning of the winter planting season.
Organized by AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora will delve deep into the rich traditions of AlUla and northwest Arabia, through a myriad of heritage-inspired events, exciting adventures, music concerts, carnivals and cultural performances, as well as extraordinary dining experiences.
Music Delights
The Winter at Tantora Festival will offer deep insights into the evolving music scene in Saudi Arabia through a collection of musical nights and classic performances. For the first time in AlUla, the Lebanese vocalist, Abeer Nehme, will perform alongside the National Arab Orchestra (NAO) on December 27, delivering an exceptional classical music experience.
Moreover, the Macintosh Show, taking place on January 3, 2025, will revive the hits of legendary Arab artists, including Saber Al-Rebai, Zena Emad, Aziz Maraka, and Daffy. They will be accompanied by the iconic maestro, Ahmed Al-Oud, and his orchestra.
In a unique musical experience, the Lebanese singer and composer, Marwan Khoury, will collaborate with the renowned Croatian cellist, HAUSER, delivering a captivating performance on January 10, 2025.
Furthermore, international and regional orchestras will dazzle audiences at the streets with stunning performances and charming melodies from the balconies at the Shorfat Tantora Concert.
Reviving Ancient Cultures
In celebration of the Year of the Camel, the Winter at Tantora Festival will feature the Sanaam AlUla Night. It is a concert experience that blends traditional music with the authentic Saudi hospitality.
Moreover, the festival will highlight the cultural heritage of AlUla’s Old Town through the Tantora Old Town Celebrations. The event will bring the Old Town to life by celebrating its arts and crafts. It will also feature master classes and storytelling, turning the Old Town into a live museum.
Journey through the Past
For adventurers and adrenaline seekers, the Winter at Tantora Festival will take them in a thrilling journey to discover AlUla’s rich history.
The In the Footsteps of Ibn Battuta – Discovery Tour will follow the footsteps of the prominent explorer, Ibn Battuta, reflecting on AlUla’s historical role and significance through a journey along the iconic Incense Road.
Engaging Experiences
The festival will also offer a number of interactive and engaging experiences. Movie and theatre enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to live a multisensory experience in the Immersive Theatre Experience, where the cinema experience merges with interactive theatrical performance bringing unparalleled entertainment and joy.
Furthermore, visitors will immerse in a cheerful atmosphere at the Almanshiyah Carnival, where the one-of-a-kind festivities and celebrations bring their inner child out.
Family Activities
The Winter at Tantora will offer family-oriented experiences and activities. The Citrus Season will highlight AlUla‘s seasonal production and the region’s 29 citrus fruits. It will also feature competitions and exciting activities.
Additionally, the Future Ancient Makers Space will take families in an amazing journey through history. This interesting activity is inspired by the creativity of ancient civilizations as well as the captivating landscape of the Old Town.
Gourmet Dining
The festival will feature a fine culinary experience, featuring world-class restaurants. The 21-Michelin-star winner, Chef Alain Ducasse, will bring his unique creations, inspired by the French cuisine and AlUla traditional dishes, to the heart of the beautiful oasis in the Ducasse in AlUla experience.
Moreover, SASS’ AlUla will offer a Mediterranean and South American fine-dining experience amid theatrical live open-fire cooking, DJ sessions and glitzy décor, bringing Monaco’s style to AlUla.
