Diriyah, the historic city considered the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, recently marked Founding Day with a series of cultural events and activities that engaged families and visitors from around the world.

The celebrations featured musical performances, historical exhibits, and a variety of interactive experiences that highlighted the establishment of the First Saudi State.

The program included shadow theater performances, Kahoot quizzes, and digital displays portraying the Kingdom's historical journey, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in Saudi heritage.

Visitors were entertained by musical groups performing traditional songs that narrate the tales of overcoming challenges and celebrating victories throughout the Kingdom's history.

Vincent Pomer, a visitor from Boston, expressed appreciation for the event, likening Founding Day to the American Fourth of July, emphasizing a connection to historical pride and cultural heritage.

One of the prominent highlights of the celebration was a Samri show, a traditional Bedouin dance and musical performance native to Najd, with origins spanning approximately 300 years.

The Samri involves two lines of men who kneel and perform synchronized movements while clapping and reciting poetry accompanied by the beating of a Daf drum.

The festivities also featured workshops designed for children and families, offering activities such as perfumery, sketching, painting, and bracelet making.

Umar Sial, a Pakistani national who has resided in Saudi Arabia for six months, noted the cultural significance of the event for newcomers.

He and his family visited various heritage sites, including Bujairi Terrasse and the Al-Turaif area, where they experienced the historical lifestyle of old Saudi families, enhancing their understanding of local customs.

The celebration presented an opportunity for foreign nationals to strengthen their cultural ties to Saudi Arabia, as Sial pointed out the importance of engaging with local traditions to better comprehend Saudi society.

Culinary traditions were also prominently featured, as local Saudi families set up booths along the event routes, offering traditional dishes such as saleeg and foul to guests, fostering community participation and cultural exchange.

The event paid tribute to historical figures, including Imam Mohammed bin Saud, founder of the First Saudi State, and his wife, Princess Modi bint Khalid Al Saud.

Their stories were vividly presented through performances that chronicled the early days of the Kingdom.

Melissa Sarawi, a guest from the Philippines, highlighted the enriched understanding of Islam gained through experiencing Founding Day.

She emphasized the significance of connecting with the roots of her faith in the context of its historic associations with Saudi Arabia.

Additionally, the celebrations included the Rawi Al-Diriyah storytelling competition, featuring school students reciting narratives related to the history of Diriyah, thus engaging the younger generation in preserving their heritage.

Other activities encompassed a horse show showcasing the Arabian horse, presentations of traditional Najdi attire, and live poetry sessions, collectively contributing to a rich tapestry of Saudi cultural expression.