In 1985, the first Saudi National Heritage and Culture Festival was held at Jenadriyah near Riyadh. The annual event, organized by the National Guard under the patronage of the King, epitomizes Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving and exploring its cultural heritage. For two weeks out of the year, the festival provides over a million Saudis with a glimpse into the past. A traditional camel race opens the festival, which encompasses almost every aspect of Saudi Arabia's culture and heritage. Artisans, such as potters, woodworkers and weavers demonstrate their traditional crafts in small shops with typical palm-frond-roofed porches. During the course of the festival, folklore troupes perform the ardha and other national dances, while singers from around the Kingdom perform traditional songs and music.