10 fantastic things to do in Jeddah this weekend: December 5 to 7
It’s a big one…
In Jeddah, there’s always something to do. So, hold on tight to our handy guide on everything worth having on your radar. Here are all the best things to do in Jeddah this weekend: December 5 to 7.
Thursday December 5
Take the kiddos out
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Unfolding over the course of three months, this Hayy Explorer programme features activities related to the new Hayy Arts exhibition, ‘We Saw An Endless Cycle,’ and is perfect for kids. You can look forward to installations that inform and allow kids to interact and add their own personal touches to the space.
The City & I: A Bird’s Eye View, Hayy Jameel, Wed to Sat 4pm to 8pm. hayyjameel.org
Get out on the dance floor
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Jeddah party people, get excited because Balad Social is back. Nightlife institution MDLBeast is bringing back the dancefloor to Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad with an all-new intimate music gathering known as the ‘Lobby Edition’. Headliners for this weekend include Luca Musto and Hakim.
Balad Social: Lobby Edition, 10pm to 3am, Red Sea Palace Hotel, Balad, Jeddah. Book your tickets here. @mdlbeast
Showcase your talents
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Open mic nights are one of the best ways to meet new talented people, and Makan Pro is actually a pro in discovering people. Whether you’re a poet or just love performing, this is the event for you.
Open mic night, Makan Music Centre, 10pm. @makan.pro
Friday December 6
Check out the Red Sea Film Festival
Set to take place from Thursday December 5 to Saturday December 14, RSIFF will feature an exciting line-up of masterclasses from experts, intriguing showcases, and a glamorous awards night gala. Over the ten-day festival, the Unesco World Heritage Site will be transformed to host the glitz and glamour of the ceremony, offering a unique blend of heritage and modernity, creating an immersive cinematic experience. This year’s theme is ‘The New Home of Film,’ an ode to the historic venue that will welcome directors and superstars from around the world.
Red Sea International Film Festival 2024, Dec 5 to 14, Al Balad, Jeddah. @redseafilm
Step into the worlds of your favourite shows
Netflix fans, brace yourselves. Don’t miss out on this immersive fan experience on Thursday December 5 and Friday December 6 at Le Chateau Mall in Jeddah. This free, two-day event allows you to delve into the worlds of your favourite Netflix films, series, and games. You can get up close and personal with the sets and props used in the films, which have been recreated for this one-of-a-kind interactive experience.
Netflix Brand Experience, Dec 5 & 6, 4pm to midnight, Le Chateau Mall, Al Andalus, Jeddah 23322. @netflixmena
Last day to enjoy the Saudi Feast Food Festival
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure at the fourth edition of the Saudi Feast Food Festival in Jeddah. This year’s festival features activities spread across seven zones: The Culinary Arts Heritage Area, where you can experience the diverse flavours and culinary traditions from all regions of the Kingdom; the Workshops Area offering multiple classes led by professional chefs; the Retail Store Area, perfect for holiday shopping and supporting local vendors; the Theatre Area; the Competition Area featuring exciting cooking contests highlighting the best Saudi dishes; a special zone dedicated to the Year of the Camel 2024; the Children’s Area for the young ones to participate in arts and crafts workshops and hands-on culinary sessions. So, grab a bite, enjoy the atmosphere, and let the melodies carry you into the night.
Saudi Feast Food Festival: Taste The Culture, until Dec 6, 4pm to midnight, Abadi Aljohar Arena, Al Basateen, Jeddah. Tickets start from SAR35 and can be purchased here. @mocculinary
Don’t miss the iconic Akira Back pop-up
The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah is launching an exclusive three-month pop-up featuring the globally celebrated dining concept, Akira Back. Famed for its Michelin-starred culinary excellence and bold fusion of Japanese and Korean flavours, Akira Back brings its signature innovation and artistry to Jeddah for the very first time. Indulge in a menu that blends tradition with modernity, including iconic dishes such as the Tuna Pizza, Wagyu Tacos, and a selection of creative, globally-inspired delights.Spaces are limited, and early reservations are highly recommended.
Akira Back Dining Concept Pop-Up, Dec 4 to Feb 28, 2025, The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah. Reservations can be made here.
Saturday December 7
Start your day at Lazy Cat
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The day that Lazy Cat pops up in Jeddah, which in turn marks the arrival of its fluffy Japanese pancakes and its indulgent crispy chicken muffin, is a fine day indeed. Luckily for us, you can now enjoy them throughout the week thanks to its all-day menu, served Sunday to Saturday for breakfast and lunch. Don’t forget to order its famous blue matcha, too.
Lazy Cat, City Yard, Ar Rawdah, daily 7am to 4pm. @eatlazycat
Explore The Wonder District
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Whether you have the teens in tow or little ones to entertain, check out the newly launched Wonder District festival, organised by the Jeddah Event Calendar. The beautifully designed space heaves with ten thoughtfully laid out zones filled with interactive shows and fun games, plus heaps of cafes.
The Wonder District, Jeddah, Ash Shati, Jeddah, weekdays 4pm to midnight & weekends 4pm to 1am. SAR35 per person and tickets can be purchased here. @jed.calendar
It’s a lock-in
Round up your savviest mates and get down to the Game Over escape room for an unforgettable experience. You know the drill: a locked room, a series of challenging puzzles, and you, desperately running around with a group of friends trying to unlock the riddle and escape to victory before the clock hits zero. There are nine different options here, with each task presenting a new challenge. Can you beat the clock or is it game over for you and your pals?
Game Over, two locations, including Red Sea Mall, Gate 15 & 6604 Al Yamamah, As Salamah, Jeddah 32436, Sat to Wed 4pm to midnight & Thurs & Fri 4pm to 1am. Price ranges from SAR185 to SAR220 per person. @gameover_jeddah