Riyadh, December 27, 2024 – Today marks the beginning of the highly anticipated closing festival for the “Year of the Camel 2024”, an extraordinary celebration organized by the Ministry of Culture at Laysen Valley in Riyadh. Spanning three exciting days, this grand event honors the camel as not only a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage but also as a cultural icon that has shaped the Kingdom’s history, traditions, and identity.
The festival, which officially kicks off today, is a culmination of a year-long series of initiatives and events that have elevated the cultural significance of camels, celebrating their pivotal role in the lives of the Saudi people. According to a press release from the Ministry of Culture, this final event is designed to offer an engaging and immersive experience for families, tourists, and children alike, providing a wide range of activities that highlight the camel's legacy in Saudi culture.
A key feature of the opening day is the “Camel Trails Parade,” a grand and visually spectacular procession that brings to life the authentic heritage of Saudi Arabia through the majestic presence of camels. The parade celebrates the historical and cultural importance of these noble creatures, who have long served as companions and integral elements in the Kingdom's development. The event promises to be a stunning visual display, drawing attendees into the heart of Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural history.
Another notable attraction on the festival’s opening day is “Al-Wajna,” a breathtaking 3D exhibit that offers visitors an immersive visual experience, showcasing the beauty of camels in their natural environments. Through innovative technology, this exhibit presents the camel as a living symbol of the Kingdom’s connection to nature and the landscapes that have shaped its existence.
Visitors to the festival can also explore “Camp Hump,” a unique area that offers exciting camel-back journeys, providing attendees with the opportunity to experience the traditional mode of transportation that has played a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s history. For those looking for an added touch of enchantment, the “Light Projection” show will dazzle spectators with a stunning visual spectacle that celebrates the enduring relationship between camels and humans, illuminated against the backdrop of Laysen Valley’s natural beauty.
For those seeking to delve deeper into the cultural significance of camels, the festival features a dedicated “Year of the Camel” pavilion. This immersive space takes visitors on a cultural journey, reflecting on the year’s most notable initiatives that have highlighted the camel’s influence in Saudi society. Additionally, the King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language will host an interactive pavilion, emphasizing the profound role of camels in Arab heritage, their historical importance, and their enduring place in Saudi culture.
Children and families will also find joy in the “Mazyouna Initiative,” a creative space where young visitors can participate in activities such as painting, photography, and interactive games inspired by the theme of camels. These activities are designed to engage children in an educational and fun-filled way, encouraging a deeper connection to the cultural importance of camels in the Kingdom.
The festival also celebrates traditional craftsmanship with live performances by skilled artisans, who will demonstrate the centuries-old crafts associated with camels, including weaving, leatherwork, and saddle-making. These artisans bring to life the time-honored skills that have been passed down through generations, showcasing the profound bond between humans and camels throughout history.
For those with an appetite for local delicacies, the festival’s food court offers a wide array of culinary delights. Attendees can enjoy a diverse range of dishes inspired by Saudi Arabia’s traditional cuisine, as well as camel-related products, such as camel milk, camel meat dishes, and camel-based treats, providing a true taste of Saudi heritage.
As the final event marking the “Year of the Camel,” the festival at Laysen Valley is more than just a celebration; it is a cultural milestone that honors camels as timeless symbols of unity, strength, and tradition. With a blend of immersive exhibits, family-friendly activities, live performances, and a vibrant atmosphere, the festival ensures that every visitor leaves with a deeper understanding and connection to Saudi Arabia’s cultural identity.
This three-day event not only serves as a fitting conclusion to the “Year of the Camel” but also reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage. The festival’s dynamic offerings provide a meaningful tribute to the camel, a creature that has stood as a steadfast companion and cultural icon, deeply embedded in the soul of Saudi Arabia.