Riyadh launched its largest entertainment season on Friday with a dazzling opening parade that drew thousands of residents and visitors between Kingdom Arena and Boulevard World.
The event, among the most anticipated of the year, marked the start of Riyadh Season 2025 with a mix of music, art and performance. Crowds cheered as international and local troupes took to the streets, accompanied by giant balloons and popular characters such as Captain Tsubasa and Baby Yoda.
Organised in collaboration with Macy’s, the renowned American company behind New York’s famous holiday parades, the event marked the first time Macy’s brought its signature giant balloons outside the US. Hundreds of participants manoeuvred the inflatables through Riyadh’s streets, creating a striking visual display of coordination and colour.
Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, announced the season’s launch in a televised address.
“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", Alalshikh posted on X.
The spectacle featured live music, theatrical floats, bubble and fireworks displays and synchronised dance performances. Families waved flags and captured the moment on their phones, while others watched from balconies along the route.
Visitors praised the event’s scale and energy.
“My favourite part was the daytime fireworks”, said Yassin Nour from the Philippines.
Egyptian visitor Mahmoud Samir said, “It exceeded our expectations. Every year the opening gets better".
Riyadh Season 2025 will include 11 entertainment zones, 15 world championships and 34 exhibitions and festivals. Since its debut in 2019, the annual event has grown into one of the region’s major attractions, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s expanding entertainment scene to a global audience.