Ramadan Lanterns Competition in Al-Qunfudhah: 9 neighborhoods compete for major prizes
Al-Qunfudhah Governorate and its surrounding areas are witnessing a remarkable social and cultural movement during the holy month of Ramadan, coinciding with the launch of Ramadan Lanterns Competition in Al-Qunfudhah. This pioneering event, organized by the Governorate's Heritage Preservation Society, aims to revive popular Ramadan traditions and highlight the authentic identity within the neighborhoods. This is evident through the exchange of visits, the holding of Ramadan evening gatherings, and the sharing of Iftar meals among various segments of society and families, thus reviving the charm of traditional games and heritage through evenings, meetings, and the traditional decorations that adorn the governorate's streets.
The historical roots of celebrating the month of Ramadan in the Hijaz and Tihama
The Hijaz and Tihama regions, including Al-Qunfudhah Governorate, have long been distinguished by their deep historical and cultural heritage in celebrating the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan. Historically, lanterns and Ramadan decorations symbolized joy and happiness, illuminating darkened alleyways to facilitate the movement of residents to perform Taraweeh prayers and exchange nightly visits. Over time, this simple custom has transformed into a firmly established cultural tradition reflecting the spirit of solidarity and cohesion. Modern initiatives are reviving this rich heritage, connecting younger generations to the past of their ancestors, thus ensuring the sustainability of these authentic customs and protecting them from fading away amidst rapid modern changes.
Evaluation criteria for the Ramadan Lanterns Competition in Al-Qunfudhah
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Heritage Preservation Society in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate, Abdulghani bin Ahmed Mirza, explained that the second edition of the competition was launched under the generous patronage of the Governor of Al-Qunfudhah, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Qabbaa. The initiative aims to strengthen national identity and community solidarity, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the quality of life goals outlined in the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Mirza noted that the judging committees base their evaluation of the participating neighborhoods on three main criteria: the first criterion includes organization, the central gathering place (markaz), and preparedness; the second focuses on highlighting Ramadan and heritage identity; and the third addresses community partnership and media documentation of initiatives implemented within the neighborhoods.
Nine neighborhoods are competing for huge final prizes
The teams participating in the final rounds are spread across nine main neighborhoods: Al-Yamaniyah, Al-Shamiyah, and Al-Na'imiyah in Al-Qunfudhah city, in addition to Khamis Harb, Sabt Al-Jarah, and Thulatha Bani Issa in the eastern part of the city. Also participating are Al-Yamaniyah and Al-Sharqiyah neighborhoods in Al-Qouz district, and Al-Kadwa neighborhood in Hali district. These locations are competing fiercely for substantial cash prizes totaling 80,000 Saudi Riyals. The top finishers will be announced and the winners crowned at a grand closing ceremony to be held on the 20th of Shawwal, culminating the efforts that have continued throughout the holy month.
The social and tourism impact of reviving folk heritage
The importance of these events extends beyond mere entertainment, encompassing far-reaching positive impacts at both the local and regional levels. Locally, Mirza praised the significant community engagement that accompanied the competition, which transformed neighborhoods into vibrant heritage villages and open-air museums. This transformation has made Al-Qunfudhah an attractive tourist destination, drawing visitors from within and outside the province, thus positively impacting the region's economic and tourism activity. The initiative also resulted in the formation of specialized organizational and first aid teams comprised of local residents, fostering volunteerism and leadership skills among young people. Regionally, this experience offers a model for leveraging intangible heritage to strengthen community bonds and transmit traditional Ramadan customs and traditions to younger generations in a creative way that blends the authenticity of the past with the beauty of the present.
