September 23 is celebrated in Saudi Arabia as Saudi National Day, the day when in 1932 the country officially became a unified kingdom under King Abdulaziz. Oddly enough, this holiday was not really celebrated until just a few short years ago. The reason for why this holiday was not celebrated for so many years lies in the question of whether or not such celebrations are forbidden by Islam. This question was an ongoing debate amongst religious scholars until the current king and his government voiced their support of the holiday. With each passing year since then, the nation's birthday celebrations have gotten bigger and better, with fireworks, speeches and ceremonies, face painting, special events, shouting in the streets, special shopping sales, and a general sense of happiness and pride.
On this day, Saudi Arabia becomes awash in a sea of green (the color of the Saudi flag) with many items specially available to wear, banners, flags, balloons, and decorations.
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8 comments:
I didn't know there is such a day. Happy Fall Season and I'm glad I stumbled upon your blog again.
What an interesting post for the day, Susie!! And it is so good to see you posting again!! Hope you have a lovely week -- whatever is left of it!!
Those sun hats certainly come in handy in that environment. A country needs a day to celebrate and be festive. I didn't know Saudi Arabia had one.
I learned something new. I think such celebrations are great.
Very cool pics with nice info...thanks for sharing!
I guess the love green because it's one color they don't see much of.
I'm glad the King put an end to the debate. Hope you had a happy National Day.
I'm not Muslim, so pardon my ignorance, but what precept of your faith would this celebration violate? I'm curious.
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