Handicrafts Festival (HARFA) 2025 in Hail Concludes with Over 91,000 Visitors
Riyadh, January 12, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The Handicrafts Festival (HARFA) 2025 in Hail, held at the historic Al-Qishla Palace from January 5 to January 11, concluded yesterday, marking a resounding success with more than 91,000 visitors from around the world. The festival celebrated Hail’s rich cultural heritage and coincided with the launch of the “Year of Handicrafts 2025.”
A Showcase of Hail’s Handicraft Legacy
The festival highlighted a wide array of traditional handicrafts, including wickerwork, carpentry, weaving, pottery, and incense burner crafting. Visitors were captivated by intricate displays of wood engraving, leather goods, daggers, swords, and Thamudic inscriptions, as well as traditional items such as decorative abayas, ropes, and windows.
Over 130 craftsmen and craftswomen participated, offering live demonstrations and training courses to share their skills with younger generations. Artistic carvings on stone and hands-on workshops provided an immersive experience for attendees, bridging the past and present through craftsmanship.
Cultural and Economic Impact
The event, organized in collaboration with the Hail Region Development Authority, the Heritage Commission, and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, featured awareness programs that emphasized the cultural and economic significance of handicrafts. These programs highlighted the role of local authorities in promoting and marketing the craft industry, fostering sustainable economic development.
Celebrating Hail’s Heritage
The festival offered more than just handicrafts, showcasing Hail’s cultural richness through folklore performances, vintage car displays, and a heritage-inspired setting with restaurants and cafes. Over 100 volunteers contributed to the festival’s organization, creating an inclusive and vibrant environment that engaged all segments of society.
A Milestone Cultural Attraction
Drawing tourists from Europe, America, Asia, the Gulf, and across Saudi Arabia, HARFA 2025 established itself as a premier cultural event. Its unique blend of creativity, tradition, and community spirit not only celebrated Saudi Arabia’s heritage but also reinforced the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural legacy on the global stage.
The success of HARFA 2025 solidifies Hail’s position as a cultural hub, offering visitors an unforgettable journey into the heart of Saudi Arabia’s rich artistic and traditional heritage.