Saleh Fareed Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — More than 36,000 people thronged various parts of the historical area in the Al-Balad district during the first six days of Ramadan as a 34-day festival called “Our Ramadan Was Like That” got under way. Zaki Hasanain, organizer of the event, claimed it was a record for a local event. He said: “We attracted 36,000 in just five days and we did not expect such a big number and I believe we will attract a historical number by the end of the month. “This proves the success of the festival and I am really glad that visitors are happy to see the real traditions of Ramadan.” Venues like the Hijazi traditional food area, one of the most popular locations during the Ramadan festival, were packed as thousands of families descended to enjoy an evening of eating and relaxed browsing. For Jeddah residents, evenings during Ramadan are not complete without visiting Balad for a walk, said 45-year-old Hamid Al-Subahi. Speaking as he was strolling around the area with his two sons, he said: “I believe the old days are back with such festivals that really brought back the old good memories of Jeddah and also revived how our old generations used to live in Ramadan. “I always enjoy the distinctive Ramadan atmosphere here in Balad and it is a must visit for me and family during the holy month because I can come here to enjoy the traditional foods, especially kibda (grilled liver on a skewer) and baleela (a dish made with whole chickpeas), served from stalls that appear each year during Ramadan." The place itself looks beautiful during the holy month with happy shoppers all in a festive spirit everywhere, according to Adnan Hamdi and Hani Amro who were enjoying a night at the festival. “The month of Ramadan is more like a festive month, where there's food, noise, entertainment and shopping crowds in Balad and I think this festival created more joy and happiness for the residents of Jeddah,” said Hamdi. Amro said: “We didn't expect Al-Balad to be as pleasing as it used to be during the past Ramadan months. “This year, the festival has fostered a better spirit since the beginning of Ramadan. “Once we are done with iftar (breaking of the day's fast), we come to the venue of the festival and stay until midnight.” Hassan Al-Malki, who was eating at one of the restaurants serving the old Hijazis dishes, said: “The festival offers its visitors truly unforgettable Ramadan memories. “I found it very interesting to see the old merchants, plays, clothes, food, houses and the spirit of Ramadan as it was back then.” The festival erected a souk with stands and shops that were designed in a traditional manner. There were vendors selling handmade wares and handing out Saudi coffee, tents to congregate in, and decorations to enjoy. Young boys wore traditional clothes, girls dressed up in old, long dresses and local women prepared and served the famous Hijazi desserts.
