Renderings released by the administration depict a large white arch topped with gilded sculptures, including a winged Lady Liberty flanked by two eagles, along with gold inscriptions reading “One Nation Under God” and “Liberty and Justice for All.”

The proposed structure would be located on Columbia Island in the Potomac River, positioned at the end of Arlington Memorial Bridge and visible from Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

At 250 feet, the proposed monument would surpass Mexico City’s Monument to the Revolution by approximately 30 feet, making it the tallest triumphal arch globally, according to figures cited in the proposal. It would also exceed the height of the nearby Lincoln Memorial, which stands at 99 feet.

Trump described the project in a social media post as “the greatest and most beautiful triumphal arch” and said it would serve as a lasting addition to the capital.

The initiative forms part of a broader set of architectural and renovation efforts undertaken during his second term, including plans for a new White House ballroom and changes to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The design has been submitted to the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, the federal body responsible for advising on matters of design and aesthetics in the capital. The administration previously replaced members of the commission in October, appointing new figures as it advanced multiple construction and redesign proposals across Washington.

The arch proposal coincides with preparations for the United States’ semiquincentennial in 2026, commemorating the 1776 Declaration of Independence from Britain.

The same commission recently approved the design of a commemorative gold coin bearing Trump’s likeness as part of the anniversary initiatives.

“In China, the revival of traditional culture is being reshaped as both an economic resource and a tool of social continuity, balancing preservation with modern commercial realities.“

Across China, traditional cultural practices are being reinterpreted within a modern economic and social framework, reflecting a broader effort to integrate heritage with contemporary life.

From festivals to craftsmanship, authorities and communities are promoting traditions as both cultural assets and drivers of economic activity.

Government-backed initiatives have supported the preservation of intangible cultural heritage, including traditional crafts, performing arts and rituals. Data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China shows a steady increase in registered heritage items and designated practitioners, as part of a nationwide programme aimed at safeguarding cultural traditions.

Festivals rooted in historical practice continue to play a central role in this revival. Events such as Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival have seen expanded participation, supported by public campaigns and tourism initiatives.

Authorities have positioned these occasions as opportunities to reinforce cultural identity while also stimulating domestic consumption.Integration with tourism and local economies where cultural heritage has become an increasingly important component of China’s tourism strategy.

In regions such as Yunnan Province and Zhejiang Province, local governments have developed heritage sites and traditional villages into tourist destinations, combining preservation efforts with infrastructure investment.

Official tourism data indicates that such initiatives have contributed to increased visitor numbers and local income generation. Traditional crafts, including ceramics, textiles and paper-cutting, are being marketed both domestically and internationally, providing new revenue streams for artisans.

At the same time, policymakers have emphasised the need to balance commercialisation with authenticity. Cultural authorities have introduced guidelines aimed at ensuring that heritage practices are preserved in their original form while adapting to modern economic contexts.

Efforts to sustain traditional practices have also focused on education and transmission to younger generations. Schools and cultural institutions have incorporated elements of traditional arts and customs into curricula, supported by government programmes.

Apprenticeship systems have been expanded to train new practitioners in crafts and performing arts. According to official statements, these programmes are intended to address concerns about declining participation in certain traditions, particularly in rural areas.Digital platforms have also played a role in dissemination.

Online content featuring traditional practices has attracted large audiences, contributing to renewed interest among younger demographics. Analysts note that this digital engagement has helped bridge the gap between heritage and contemporary culture.Cultural policy and national identity where the revival of traditional culture is closely linked to broader policy objectives related to national identity and social cohesion.

Government initiatives have framed cultural heritage as a source of continuity in a rapidly changing society, while also promoting it internationally as part of cultural diplomacy.State-supported programmes have increased funding for heritage preservation and encouraged local governments to integrate cultural assets into development strategies.

Analysts say this approach reflects an effort to align economic growth with cultural preservation, particularly in regions undergoing rapid urbanisation.

While the expansion of heritage-related industries has generated economic benefits, it has also raised questions about the impact of commercialisation on traditional practices.

Cultural authorities have acknowledged these challenges and indicated that regulatory frameworks will continue to evolve in response to changing conditions.

This festival provides visitors with an immersive cultural experience, showcasing Saudi food as a key element of national identity while highlighting the diversity and authenticity of local cuisine across different regions of the country.

Live cooking stations allow skilled chefs to prepare traditional dishes in front of attendees, offering both an educational and sensory experience that emphasizes the artistry and heritage embedded in Saudi culinary practices.

The event features six thematic pavilions, each designed to highlight the unique flavors, ingredients, and culinary techniques representative of Saudi Arabia’s diverse geographical and cultural landscapes.

Visitors can explore a variety of foods and beverages made from locally sourced ingredients, demonstrating the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable gastronomy while promoting regional specialties and traditional recipes.

A dedicated children’s pavilion engages younger audiences with interactive cooking activities and educational demonstrations, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the cultural and nutritional significance of Saudi cuisine.

Tasting spaces throughout the festival allow attendees to experience an array of flavors, from savory main courses to innovative desserts, blending traditional and modern culinary styles in an inviting and festive environment.

Innovative beverage experiences inspired by local products provide additional layers to the festival, offering visitors unique insights into Saudi ingredients such as dates, herbs, spices, and fruits transformed into refreshing drinks and creative refreshments.

The festival emphasizes the role of food as both an artistic and knowledge-based experience, encouraging visitors to engage with culinary practices, cooking techniques, and the cultural stories behind each dish.

Chefs and culinary experts participate in workshops and demonstrations, sharing techniques, flavor combinations, and insights into the historical and cultural significance of traditional Saudi recipes.

Through these interactive experiences, the festival fosters community engagement, strengthens cultural pride, and highlights the importance of preserving and promoting Saudi culinary heritage for future generations.

The event also reflects broader efforts by the Kingdom to elevate its cultural tourism sector, positioning food and gastronomy as central pillars in promoting Saudi Arabia as a global destination for cultural and culinary excellence.

By combining traditional flavors with modern presentation and innovative cooking methods, the festival demonstrates how Saudi culinary arts can evolve while maintaining strong ties to history, regional identity, and national pride.

Visitors gain an understanding of the Kingdom’s regional diversity through cuisine, learning how geography, climate, and local resources influence the unique flavors, preparation methods, and dining traditions across Saudi Arabia.

The festival’s programming integrates cultural storytelling, music, and visual arts, enhancing the overall visitor experience and creating a holistic celebration of Saudi heritage through multiple sensory channels.

Al-Qatif Street Food Festival serves as a platform for local culinary entrepreneurs, artisans, and small businesses to showcase their products, connect with a broader audience, and contribute to the growth of the Saudi food economy.

By highlighting sustainability, local sourcing, and creative gastronomy, the festival aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to promote culture, heritage, tourism, and entrepreneurship while strengthening national identity.

The event also encourages visitors to experiment with flavors, learn new recipes, and appreciate the creativity and dedication of Saudi chefs, reinforcing food as an essential medium of cultural expression and community connection.

The season, themed “Ezek we Malfak” (Your Glory and Refuge), launched on Thursday along the beautiful banks of Wadi Safar in western Diriyah, marking another significant celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity.

The theme reflects Diriyah’s enduring legacy as the birthplace of the first Saudi state and a symbol of the Kingdom’s strength, culture, and history.

Organized by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), the opening ceremony was attended by Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki, Governor of Diriyah, along with several cultural and media figures from Saudi Arabia and abroad.

The evening was brought to life with artistic performances inspired by the spirit of “Al-Awja,” a term deeply linked to Diriyah’s identity and the pride of the Saudi people.

Through captivating visual displays, advanced lighting, and drone shows, the story of Wadi Hanifa was beautifully told in a performance titled “I Am Al-Awja,” which left the audience inspired and emotional.

Adding to the evening’s charm, the winners of the “Rawi Al-Diriyah” (Narrator of Diriyah) program, Tamim Al-Harthi and Bader Al-Harbi, delivered interactive performances that reflected the profound connection between Saudis and their national heritage.

Their presentations, blending storytelling, music, and tradition, symbolized the deep emotional bond that unites the people of Saudi Arabia with Diriyah — the land where their nation’s story began.

The celebration also featured musical and theatrical performances showcasing Saudi folk traditions, including the Ardah and Samri dances.

These performances highlighted the diversity of Najdi culture and celebrated the artistic spirit of young Saudis, both men and women, who are keeping their heritage alive through creativity and performance.

Ahlam Al-Thunayan, director of Diriyah Season, explained that this year’s theme aims to celebrate Diriyah’s history, values, and culture in innovative ways that reflect the pride Saudis take in their roots.

She emphasized that the symbolism of Al-Awja represents the Kingdom’s continuity — linking the past with the present while inspiring future generations to preserve their cultural identity.

The season features more than 10 diverse programs over 120 days, ranging from cultural and artistic events to historical exhibitions.

Highlights include the “Hal Al-Qusour” program in the Al-Turaif district, where several historical palaces will be opened to the public for the first time, and the “Teen” program, which showcases traditional Najdi architecture.

Other attractions include the “Diriyah Novel Festival” in Al-Bujairi and “Diriyah Nights,” which bring together Saudi culinary art and international dining experiences in a lively and elegant setting.

The “Season Market” in Al-Tawali recreates the charm of old Arabian souqs, while Al-Dhuwairah district will host interactive family activities and craft workshops. Visitors can also enjoy luxury hospitality experiences with scenic views over Wadi Safar, merging modern leisure with historical elegance.

According to the DGDA, all programs are guided by principles of cultural sustainability, empowering local talents and artisans, and fostering partnerships that strengthen cultural tourism in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The goal is to position Diriyah as a living museum — a place where the past and present merge seamlessly to inspire the future.

Nasser Al-Gharbi, chairman of the Economic Families Association, praised the Diriyah Season as a shining example of how culture and community development can work together.

He noted that the season reflects Vision 2030’s objectives by empowering local communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities through cultural engagement.

Dr. Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh of the Saudi Economic Association highlighted that initiatives like the Diriyah Season help strengthen local economies, create jobs, and encourage regional investment — all key goals under Vision 2030.

The Diriyah Season ultimately stands as a proud tribute to Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, creativity, and unity. By blending tradition with innovation, the festival transforms Diriyah into a vibrant cultural hub that connects generations.

It serves as a reminder that the Kingdom’s strength lies not only in its progress but also in its deep respect for its history and identity — values that continue to guide its journey toward a bright and sustainable future.