Saudi Arabia will launch the second edition of the "Winter at Tantora 2019" International Festival in December this year and top artists from across the world will take part in the event.
The festival, which will open on December 19 and last till March 7, 2020, will celebrate the arts, culture, heritage and history in the historic area of Al-Ula, said a Saudi Press Agency report.
Spanish singer, songwriter Enrique Iglesias will perform on February 21; while American singer Lionel Ritchie will be there on February 28. Renowned musicians Omar Khairat and Yanni will also take part in the events, the report said.
Ritchie was quoted as saying that it will be his first visit to the kingdom, which he considers an exceptional opportunity and experience.
This year's "Winter at Tantora" festival will be organised under the title "A Journey through Time in a Timeless Historical Site" according to four themes: Re-embodiment of Heritage, Oasis of Culture, Adventure and Exploration and the Resort.
The festival invites lovers of arts and culture from around the world to enjoy a range of performances, events, cultural, artistic and heritage experiences within the atmosphere of the historical "Al-Ula Governorate", which embraces the "Al Hijr" site or what is known as "Madaen Saleh", the first Saudi site registered on the list of Unesco World Heritage, a statement said.
The festival will include a play show inspired by the glories and history of Al-Ula to be presented on February 14 by Caracalla Dance Theater titled “Jameel Bouthaina” and a concert of Beethoven music on January 3, 2020.
The festival's events will also include a range of activities designed for arts, culture and adventure enthusiasts as well as lovers of history and sports, including a balloon festival, and the activity of "classic aircraft flights", in addition to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup for Endurance (Knights' Forum), the second largest endurance race in the world. It will also include experiences of cooking under the stars to be organized by international Michelin-class chefs.
The season will also host other attractions such as heritage markets along with areas designed to provide high-end international brands, whereas visitors can make tours throughout the ancient historical sites, dating back to about 2000 years and enjoy a unique experience that takes them on a journey through time using virtual reality technology.
The Festival of Winter at Tantora 2019 is inspired by the ancient deep-rooted traditions of Al-Ula governorate which was historically used to celebrate seasons changing including the start of winter, allowing visitors to enjoy the true essence of the this province beginning from its heritage and diverse markets to local performances.
The season allows the visitor to enjoy such a distinctive set of activities in a historical site that stands witness to the greatness of human civilizations of which their edifices are still alive today.