11 top things to do in Riyadh this week: November 24 to 27
So much to do…
There’s never a dull moment in Riyadh. There’s always so much to do, from quiz nights to monthly dessert specials, the city is constantly lit up with incredible activities. Here’s our edit on the best things to do in Riyadh this week: November 24 to 27
Sunday November 24
Experience the Christian Dior Designer of Dreams exhibition
“Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” is here in Riyadh, and it’s all we can talk about. For the first time in Saudi Arabia, fashion lovers will soon be able to view over 500 objects, including accessories and fragrances, and legendary editorials and illustrations showcasing Dior’s designs. The House’s multiple sources of inspiration – from Versailles and the Age of Enlightenment to the splendour of gardens and flowers – will also be on display at the National Museum of Saudi Arabia’s iteration of the exhibit.
Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams, Nov 21 to Apr 2, Mon, Tues & Wed 11am to 11pm, Thurs & Sat noon to midnight, Fri 4pm to midnight, National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Al Murabba, Riyadh. Book your tickets here. @riyadhseason
Saudi International Handcraft Week
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Putting a spotlight on the most important Saudi customs and traditions by introducing you to incredible Saudi handicrafts while also supporting and empowering craftsmen, the Ministry of Culture wants to promote cultural exchange with other countries by introducing the rich cultural heritage of the Kingdom.
The Saudi International Handcrafts Week, Roshn Front, until Nov 29, daily 4pm to 8pm. Book your free tickets here.
The Italian happy hour menu you need to try
If there’s one thing we can learn from our Italian friends, it’s that those pre-sunset hours are all about aperitivo. Il Baretto is now serving up a taste of la dolce vita with its new Aperitivo menu. Picture yourself sitting in the buzzy bar and lounge area, a refreshing spritz mocktail in hand. Available daily from 5pm to 7pm, visit Il Baretto to celebrate the end of the day and whet the appetite before supper – a popular pastime celebrated across Italy’s beautiful and diverse regions, for an aperitivo experience with five surprise Italian tapas-style dishes and one crafted beverage. Sounds like a match made in foodie heaven. Guests are invited to dine in Il Baretto’s bar and lounge area: an intimate and welcoming space perfect for everyone from couples on date nights to groups of friends and solo diners.
Il Baretto Aperitivo Menu, SAR135 per person, daily 5pm to 7pm, Il Baretto, Al Malqa, KAFD, Riyadh 13521. @ilbarettosa
Monday November 25
Explore Wonder Garden
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Returning for its second edition, Wonder Garden 2024 defines itself as the first magical garden-themed amusement park. As we said, tickets to enter the zone have also been released and cost SAR25 on weekdays and SAR50 on weekends. You can get yours here. Zone timings are 4pm to 11.55pm on weekends and 5pm to 11.55pm on weekdays.
Wonder Garden, Al Qirawan, Sun to Wed 4pm to 11.55pm & Thu to Sat 5pm to 11.55pm. Get you tickets starting at SAR25 (weekday) here.
Watch Wicked in cinemas
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After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Find your inner cowboy at this rugged town
Take a step back in time and experience the Wild West in its modern-day form, complete with cowboys, good food, and fun. There’s also plenty of fun at the ranch for your family excursion. Go on a pony ride, hop on the train, take a shot at archery, catch the cowboy show (it feels like you’re watching a Western movie play out as the actors mix suspense, action, and even some comedy into their routines), participate in live performances, and let the little ones explore the kid’s area filled with slides, a ball pit, and more. Tickets, priced at SAR35, are required to enter South West Cowboy Town, which you can purchase on site or via MyTable app.
South West Cowboy Town, 4pm to midnight, AlAmaria Rd, Riyadh 13933.
Tuesday November 26
Bike through Wadi Hanifah
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On the Riyadh activity schedule for the week is a fun bike ride through the gorgeous valley of Wadi Hanifah with the amazing instructor, Latifa.
Bike ride through Wadi Hanifah, 7pm to 8pm. @rwg_community
Test your Brooklyn 99 knowledge
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We don’t know about you, but Brooklyn 99 has to be one of our all-time favourite shows. And this Tuesday, you can challenge yourself and your friends to a very fun Brooklyn 99 quiz
Brooklyn 99 trivia, Level Up, Hittin, 8pm to 10pm. @lvlupsocialhub
Catch the travelling water circus
Fontana, the Middle East’s first travelling water circus, is hoisting its big top in Riyadh. Taking place until the end of December, the shows are held under the Fontana circus tent pitched up at the open space next to Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall. Brought to the capital by the Lebanese group Cirque Du Liban, the aquatic show combines a thrilling mix of mind-bending illusions and astounding acrobatics. Expect to see awe-inspiring dancers, gravity-defying aerialists, and incredible circus thrills that will enthral the entire family.
Fontana by Cirque Du Liban, until end-Dec, 6pm to 9pm (the show starts at 7pm sharp), Fontana Circus, Al Mughrizat, Riyadh (next to Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall). Tickets start from SAR95 and can be purchased here. @fontanashow
Wednesday November 27
Check into the Vampire Hotel
Located in the Italy pavilion, The Vampire Hotel is exactly how it sounds. It features multiple rooms, each of which holds a scary survival challenge that you have to survive to move to the next room.
The Vampire Hotel, Boulevard World, Italy Pavillion. Buy your tickets here for SAR80.
Get your nails done
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This is where the cool and edgy girls go to congregate. You can ask for whatever you like, but they’re well-known for their bright and gloriously cheerful designs. Walk into the gorgeous new DQ location and you’ll find a bright pink venue that is perfect for a girly day out.
Base & Boon, Al Safarat, Tue to Sun noon to 9pm, Closed Mon. @baseandboon