Winter at Tantora 2023

Winter at Tantora 2023 is the fourth edition of the Winter at Tantora Festival. It extended over four weeks, from December 22, 2022, until January 21, 2023. The festival was organized by the Royal Commission for AlUla  in al-Madinah al-Munawwarah Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It derives its name from al-Tantora, a sundial that was historically used by the people of al-Ula to determine the onset of al-Murbaaniyah period to celebrate the beginning of the farming season that coincides with the start of winter.

In its fourth edition, Winter at Tantora offered a range of entertainment, cultural, and artistic events. The annual Tantora Festival was held from December 22 to 24, offering attendees an immersive exploration of the history of al-Tantora of al-Ula, along with interactive artistic performances. In al-Ula Oasis, Winter at Tantora 2023 showcased a variety of activities, including a delightful stroll along the historical oasis trail from December 22 to January 21. Additionally, the festival held an interactive workshop to introduce guests to sustainable agriculture practices through participation in an environmental farming activity every Friday and Saturday from December 2 to March 21.

For the culinary arts, Winter at Tantora introduced the first festival dedicated to culinary arts in al-Ula from December 29 to January 14. Regarding design and fashion, Wadi Ashar Fashion event featured a selection of luxury retailers, for a limited period, offering exclusive jewelry and fashion designs inspired by al-Ula's natural beauty and heritage. This event ran from December 28 to March 23. Additionally, the temporary exhibition, Tafoni, held from January 12 to 21 presented a selection of high-end products from Saudi and international designers, showcasing designs inspired by al-Ula's environment and history.

The festival also included the Five Senses Sanctuary event, which focuses on physical and mental health by offering yoga lessons in indoor halls and outdoor spaces amid stunning natural scenery.

For the second time, al-Ula Citrus Festival returns during the first and second weekends of January 2023. The festival features stalls selling citrus fruits of all kinds, local products made from these crops, live music performances, children's activities, and cooking demonstrations by international chefs. Among the recreational activities offered at the festival are balloon rides in al-Ula and Khaybar, stargazing at al-Ula's sky, and rock-climbing adventures.