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DHAHRAN: The inaugural Children’s Festival being held under the theme “What if?” at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture is designed to “inspire imagination, encourage connection, and make space for discovery,” an official told Arab News recently.

Nouf Al-Jama, the head of learning at Ithra, added: “The program invites children to express themselves, engage with their surroundings, and experience culture in new and exciting ways.”

The event, which began on July 7 and runs until July 26 between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m., blends creativity, learning, play and discovery.

The festival features 50 diverse activities including live performances, interactive stations, creative zones, workshops and a book fair, to encourage critical and creative thinking.

The artistic zones invite children and their families to explore color, motion, and self-expression.

One such experience combines rhythm and culinary arts, transforming everyday kitchen utensils into instruments of sound and joy.

“(The festival) gives children the freedom to express themselves and feel heard — whether through painting in the interactive art space, uncovering clues in the museum adventure, or stepping onto the open mic stage,” said Al-Jama.

The sessions have experts from local and regional institutions including the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, Abu Dhabi Children’s Library, House of Wisdom in Sharjah, and King Abdulaziz Public Library.

Parents and guardians are invited to join workshops, engage in conversations with other parents and build memories.

“It is this sense of togetherness, where children and families learn and grow side by side, that makes the festival so special,” Al-Jama added.

With schools closed and summertime in full swing, local children are immersing themselves in the festival.

“The response so far has been incredibly encouraging. From the very first day, we have seen families arriving early and staying for hours, moving from one experience to the next.

“Children have embraced the festival with curiosity and confidence,” she said of the opening week.

Additionally, the five-day Children’s Book Fair at Ithra runs until July 19, and includes 20 local and international publishing houses specializing in literature for children and young adults.

South Korea is this year’s guest of honor, offering a window into its culture through stories and illustrations.

“It is part of Ithra’s ongoing efforts to support the next generation by using culture as a tool for exploration, growth, and shared experience,” Al-Jama said.