Saudi National Day
Saudi Arabia's National Day is celebrated annually on September 23rd, commemorating the unification of Najd and Hijaz. In 1932, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was officially formed and named after the surname of its ruler, Abdulaziz Ibn Saud. "Al Yom Al Watany" is the Arabic name for National Day, which is celebrated on a fixed date in the Gregorian calendar. However, the year of this holiday is calculated according to the lunar calendar, and in 2020, Saudi Arabia celebrated its 90th anniversary (not the 88th anniversary according to the Gregorian calendar). During the National Day celebrations, Saudi Arabia lights up fireworks, holds parades, and showcases floats representing the unique features of each region. The streets are filled with lively music and beautiful traditional costumes, and the Saudi flag is flown on both sides of the road. This special cultural event allows people to showcase their pride in their country to the world, as they light up their cars and homes with green. National Day is the perfect time to visit Saudi Arabia, as the country is filled with joy and celebration. Wear green and join in the festivities, then head to Riyadh to take part in the largest celebration. As McCarran said, "You can see fireworks soaring from different places in Riyadh. It's very festive."
Eid al-Fitr: The Feast of Breaking Fast
Ramadan is an important month in Islam, usually observed through indirect fasting and reflection. On the last day of Ramadan, a grand celebration is held for three days to mark the end of Ramadan and the beginning of a new year. Each day of Ramadan ends with an "iftar" celebration at sunset. After Ramadan, people celebrate Eid Al Fitr, where the main focus of the celebration is to share what you have with others, including donating a special charity called Zakat Al Fitr. The minimum amount to donate is equivalent to the cost of a staple food item, such as rice or flour, for each family member, which is approximately 5 pounds or 7 dollars per person.
Eid al-Adha
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated on the 10th day of the last month (Dhu al-Hijjah) of the Islamic calendar, approximately two months after the end of Ramadan. This holiday symbolizes the end of the pilgrimage to Mecca and honors the Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his first son, Isaac, according to God's command. Before Isaac could be sacrificed, God intervened and provided a lamb for sacrifice instead. Today, many Saudi families still sacrifice sheep, goats, cows, and even camels, dividing the meat into three parts to share with family, friends, neighbors, and the less fortunate. As most businesses and shops will be closed for three days, it's a peaceful time for tourism. It's also the perfect time to visit small villages to witness traditional celebrations.
