See & Do

Diriyah Storytelling Festival brings the magic of books to life

The festival, starting Jan 30, promises to entertain and educate the whole family

BY /
27 January 25
Diriyah Storytelling Festival brings the magic of books to life
Credit: SPA

This month, Diriyah unveils its first-ever Storytelling Festival, a cultural event set to enchant literature lovers from January 30 to February 8. Nestled within Bujairi Terrace, Bab Samhan Hotel, and Al-Dhawihra Farm, the festival promises a feast of narratives with over 150 renowned speakers and performers gracing the event.

Diriyah's Storytelling Festival is designed to be a haven for casual readers and literary experts alike, offering a rich tapestry of activities that span storytelling nights, interactive workshops, and immersive discussions that delve deep into the craft of storytelling and the personal journeys behind beloved tales.

Attendees can look forward to a diverse program that includes novel fairs, tranquil reading zones, and vibrant spaces for book signings. The festival goes beyond the written word, incorporating music production, screen aesthetics, and even the translation of narratives into animated or live-action formats.

Each corner of the festival is crafted to enhance the literary experience, complete with stages for live performances and unique adaptations of global cinematic works.

The festival also offers culinary delights with live cooking demos and tastings inspired by famous literary works, creating a multi-sensory storytelling experience.

Young visitors can enjoy the "Little Storyteller" zone, which is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of storytellers through workshops in puppetry, story creation, and more.

Supporting local talent, the festival includes an exclusive Writers' Retreat. This serene getaway invites Saudi writers to learn under the stars in Diriyah, offering courses and seminars led by international literary figures aimed at refining their craft.

Part of the broader Diriyah Season, the Storytelling Festival invites visitors to explore and indulge their literary passions.