On Thursday, buildings and public squares across Saudi cities and provinces were adorned in green to celebrate Founding Day, which falls on February 22nd each year. This occasion is a historical event and a cherished national celebration that highlights the history of the Saudi state and its deep-rooted heritage, spanning three centuries since its founding by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727, and extending to the achievements of growth and prosperity across all fields.
Saudis embraced their rich history during the celebrations, engaging in various activities and events that formed a bridge connecting their thriving present with a past filled with sacrifice, heroism, and glory—serving as inspiration for generations about their great homeland. Traditional attire worn by many participants reflected a joyful expression of this historic occasion, representing a celebration that showcases the ancient heritage passed down through generations, creating a traditional atmosphere enriched by the beauty of regional fashions, both for men and women, alongside the historical significance of the event.
Activities in various regions and provinces transported visitors back three centuries through live performances, interactive exhibits, cultural seminars, artistic events, and historical theater shows, while the "Light Show" event illuminated the skies of Saudi Arabia, blending fireworks with drones and synchronized light effects, accompanied by musical rhythms to create unique visual displays.
In the capital, Riyadh, the Founding Village activities were launched across 14 cities and provinces on Thursday, providing rich experiences celebrating cultural heritage. The artistic demonstration kicked off the "Founding Nights" event, attended by a select group of poets and artists. Moreover, the "Historical Journey" event, starting Friday, will cover the timeline of Saudi state history from 1727 until today through 19 scenes, with a large orchestral performance scheduled for Sunday and Monday as part of the "Symphony of Beginnings" event.
The historic district of Jeddah celebrated the occasion with a series of cultural activities stretched over three days to honor the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage. Locations such as "Bab Jadid," "Burhat Al-Hazazi," "Burhat Dhakir," "Burhat Al-Eidros," and "Zawiyat 97" hosted live performances and exhibitions, featuring a theater area, a children's corner, various workshops, cultural activities, popular games, and unique food experiences. This celebration aligns with the efforts of the Jeddah Historical Program to organize and sponsor cultural initiatives that contribute to safeguarding national heritage, raising cultural awareness, and promoting cultural tourism.
Additionally, Prince Faisal bin Fahd bin Muqrin, Deputy Governor of the Hail region, participated on Thursday in the "Darb Zubaydah" caravan, which traveled from the historic city of Faid to the Samirah governorate in celebration of Founding Day. Organized by the Caravans Association under the supervision of the Heritage Authority, this initiative aims to revitalize this important historical route, positively influencing economic, cultural, and tourism growth in the region.
The Ministry of Culture published winning scholarly research from grant (1139) related to Founding Day in a scientific book in collaboration with Darat King Abdulaziz, coinciding with the celebration. Additionally, the Ministry announced the launch of the "1727" competition from Thursday to Saturday, welcoming public participation through an electronic platform, with a total prize pool of 100,000 SAR. The competition includes questions about the establishment of the Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 and what this day represents in terms of great pride for Saudis, along with various other questions related to Founding Day and its historical and conceptual significance.
This competition is part of a series of activities offered by the Ministry of Culture on Founding Day to honor its symbolic value for the Saudi state and its deeply rooted national meanings, which encompass events throughout different regions in the Kingdom, targeting all segments of society. The Founding Day celebrations provided Saudis with a glimpse into the nation's past, revisiting the early formation of their state, and renewing joy in Founding Day strengthened their connection to a historically significant legacy stretching over 300 years and reflecting on the growth and development the country has experienced on its journey toward the future.
