AlUla Comes Alive for Winter at Tantora
As milder weather cools the Kingdom, all eyes are turning to AlUla, where the ancient site becomes a kaleidoscope of art, music, gastronomy, and wanderlust. From December 18 to January 10, the annual Winter at Tantora festival will again bring unforgettable performances and unequalled experiences to the winding alleys of AlUla’s Old Town, the cliffsides of ancient Hegra, and the evocative, palm-lined oasis.
Some history
The name Tantora comes from the ancient sundial in the Old Town, a gathering point for generations past to mark the rhythms of life and the start of the winter planting season. Today, that spirit of coming together lives on in the festival’s stylish – but traditionally-rooted – way that Saudi does so well.
In fact, a great place to start is at events like Midday at Tantora where you can check out the free guided heritage talks that begin around that historic sundial with neat little sessions that set the tone for the festival’s immersive blend of old and new.
What else is on?
When the sun goes down, the lights come up on the Old Town Nights stages with atmospheric heritage shows of traditional dance and music in a natural amphitheater. When paired with fine dining inside the ancient fort, it’s a truly enchanting way to connect with AlUla’s story.
Another of the festival’s most memorable experiences are the Shorfat Tantora open-air balcony concerts where musicians perform from rooftops and terraces along the Incense Road and in AlJadidah Arts District of the Old Town. From bumping traditional rhythms to the fresh modern beats, the streets become winding venues as you check out the AlManshiyah Carnival, which brings vintage games, colorful mini parades, local craft stalls, and lots of color and laughs for all ages. It’s a perfect place to wander, grab seasonal treats, and soak up the joyful atmosphere.
If you want to focus on the food, you won’t feel left out either. The Old Town Culinary Voyage pairs storytelling with local flavors, think delicious bites woven together with tales of AlUla’s past and present. You can even make your way to one of the Michelin-listed eateries nestled atop the oasis!
For the wilder at heart
The season’s cooler weather means Winter at Tantora is also an ideal time to explore the countryside. And with desert hikes, hot‑air balloon flights over Hegra, mountain biking, stargazing sessions, rock-climbing, and guided hikes around the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there’s every opportunity to do just that! Oh, and did we mention the AlUla Stairway? That’s the 45-meter (about 147 feet) wire cable ladder you can climb to the summit of AlUla’s iconic cliffs to take in the view before an exhilarating zipline back to Earth. Sounding good? These are just a few of the outdoors adventures in store, so check out the official website for more!
Let’s get after it
In short, whether you’re into culture, cuisine, music or just good times under open skies, Winter at Tantora has something special waiting for you. There’s plenty to get up to and discover, whether you’re going alone, with friends, or with kids in tow, but be sure to plan ahead and check whether you need tickets. Oh and pack plenty of layering options – the days are warm, but if you’re staying out for a late-night concert or stargazing session, that pure desert breeze can be bracing!
