Adrees Ahmed Gunja
Saudi Arabia : The Saudi capital came alive on Friday as Riyadh Season 2025 launched with its grandest-ever opening parade, transforming the city into a dazzling celebration of art, culture, and entertainment.
Thousands of residents and international visitors gathered along the route between Kingdom Arena and Boulevard World, where colorful floats, global performers, and massive parade balloons lit up the evening in a display reminiscent of world-famous festivals.
A major highlight was the debut of Macy’s Parade-style inflatables, brought directly from the United States by the legendary American entertainment company Macy’s — marking the first time these iconic balloons have appeared outside the U.S.. The Macy’s team led hundreds of performers through Riyadh’s streets, infusing a unique blend of New York-style festivity with Saudi Arabia’s vibrant cultural identity.
The opening parade featured marching bands, artistic floats, synchronized dancers, and daytime fireworks, captivating audiences of all ages. Children waved flags, families took selfies, and visitors from around the world joined in a celebration that reflected the Season’s global theme.
Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), officially opened Riyadh Season 2025 with a televised address, thanking King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support in transforming Saudi Arabia’s entertainment landscape.
“This is not just a parade — it’s a statement,” said Alalshikh. “A message to the world that Riyadh is ready to host and inspire at a global level.”
Riyadh Season 2025 will span 11 themed zones, featuring over 15 world championship events, 34 festivals and exhibitions, and numerous international and regional concerts.
Launched in 2019, Riyadh Season has rapidly grown into one of the world’s premier entertainment festivals, playing a key role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by positioning Riyadh as a global hub for tourism, culture, and sports.