Saudi National Day

Date: September 23

History

Saudi National Day commemorates the renaming of the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by a royal decree from King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud in 1932. This event marked the unification of the regions into a single nation under his leadership, following a series of conquests that began in 1902 with the capture of Riyadh, his ancestral home.

Traditions and Celebrations

On Saudi National Day, citizens across the kingdom engage in an array of festivities to express their national pride:

• Public Displays: Streets and buildings are adorned with Saudi flags and images of the king and other leaders.
• Cultural Events: Traditional dances, music performances, and poetry readings highlight Saudi heritage.
• Fireworks: Major cities put on spectacular fireworks shows.
• Green Illumination: Landmarks are often lit up in green, reflecting the colors of the national flag.
• Festivals: Various regions host festivals where families can enjoy entertainment, including air shows and historical reenactments.

What People Do

People partake in different activities to show their patriotism:

1. Wearing traditional dress or green clothing to symbolize national colors.
2. Attending or watching parades showcasing military strength and cultural diversity.
3. Partaking in local heritage events or visiting cultural exhibitions.
4. Enjoying public concerts featuring popular Saudi artists.
5. Taking advantage of promotions and discounts offered by businesses as part of the celebrations.

The day is also marked by acts that reflect love for the country such as planting trees or engaging in community service projects. The sense of unity is prevalent throughout these celebrations as citizens come together to honor their nation's history and achievements.