ALKHOBAR: The Food Culture Festival, running until Feb. 2, has transformed Alkhobar’s seafront into a hub of culinary and cultural exchange.

The event features oversized food sculptures — including a giant hamburger and pizza slice — leading visitors into a world of flavors.

With 30 food varieties, 12 kiosks, and interactive spaces, the festival offers a rich culinary journey, complemented by live music.

In collaboration with the Quality of Life Program, the festival features a lineup of international cuisines, including Saudi, Italian, Turkish, American, Chinese and Thai, offering a diverse range of dishes, from street food favorites to gourmet specialties.

On arrival, visitors receive a festival passport that guides them through culinary quests. Completing all challenges earns them a free prize — either a T-shirt or a mug — but participation is optional. Guests can simply walk around, purchase food, and enjoy the live performances without following the passport activities.

One vendor, Norah Mari of Soma, shared her pride in showcasing a local twist on a dish. “People are coming to sample culinary delights from around the world, and we are proud to showcase our Saudi twist on a dish that originates in Syria. We added Hasawi lemon to our new variation, and this festival gives everyone a chance to sample it,” she told Arab News.

Workshops led by expert chefs cover food decoration, sushi making, pasta preparation and food photography, requiring a separate ticket for participation.

Entertainment takes center stage with live performances, including Arabic music, Indian Bharatanatyam dance and a Chinese dragon dance in celebration of the lunar new year. Carnival games and shows add to the excitement.

For families, there are interactive workshops introducing children to global food cultures through fruit tastings, baking sessions and farm experiences.

“We are now here in Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia, promoting Filipino products with the help of our Philippine embassy,” said vendor Philip Lim, highlighting the festival’s diverse offerings.

Cousins Lama Al-Shaikh, 7, and Haya Al-Shaikh, 8, attended with their mothers to explore the festival: “The event is so fun, and the food is so good!” they told Arab News.

Open from 4 p.m. to midnight, the festival provides an ideal setting for residents and visitors to gather, indulge in world-class cuisine and enjoy a festive atmosphere.

“As a Saudi entrepreneur, I’m so pleased that we were able to participate in this festival in the same city where my journey began,” Mari said.

Following its stopover in Alkhobar, the festival will move to Riyadh from Feb. 5-9 and Jeddah from Feb. 12-16.

To book tickets, visit https://www.instagram.com/mocculinary?igsh=bXB5bnVwZ3V2dm92