RIYADH: Huge crowds gathered for the opening parade in Riyadh Season 2025, which took place on Friday between Kingdom Arena and Boulevard World in the Saudi capital.
The parade is among the most anticipated events of the year as it marks the start of a new season.
The event showcased a diverse array of performances by both international and local groups, featuring giant balloons and beloved characters such as Captain Tsubasa and Baby Yoda.
The event showcased a diverse array of performances by international and local groups, including giant balloons. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)
With lively music, vivid colors, and dynamic live shows, Riyadh was turned into a radiant celebration brimming with excitement and joy.
Turki Alalshikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, said on his X account: “The parade has begun. All eyes on the giant balloons as everyone lives the long-awaited moment. #RiyadhSeason 2025 kicks off with an unforgettable start.”
Organizers of the event said: “The parade is organized in collaboration with Macy’s, one of New York’s most renowned organizers of festive parades, which is presenting — for the first time outside the United States — a selection of its signature giant balloons, long considered a hallmark of its annual celebrations. These enormous and intricately designed balloons require hundreds of participants to maneuver each one in perfect synchronization, adding a global touch to the season’s spectacular opening.”
The event showcased a diverse array of performances by international and local groups, including giant balloons. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)
Yassin Nour, from the Philippines, was amazed by the parade, and told Arab News: “My favorite part of the parade was the daytime fireworks, and I’m looking forward to more events like this.”
Mahmoud Samir, from Egypt, told Arab News that the parade was beautiful, adding: “It exceeded our expectations. We were expecting something good, but it turned out to be much better than we expected.”
Samir said that Riyadh Season’s opening ceremonies get better each year, and added: “God willing, we will be the first visitors and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere.”
Ali Al-Yami, from Najran, told Arab News that Riyadh Season always surprised him with its opening shows, and added: “The balloons looked fantastic and beautiful.”
