Uzbekistan’s Kokand Transforms into Global Craft Capital as Artisans from 71 Countries Gather

Uzbekistan’s historic city of Kokand has come alive with color, creativity, and culture as it plays host to the International Festival of Handicrafts, welcoming over 300 master artisans from 71 countries for a three-day celebration of traditional craftsmanship, innovation, and intercultural exchange.

Centered at Urda Square, the city’s vibrant hub has been transformed into a bustling festival ground with exhibition pavilions, a grand stage, and interactive showcases already in place, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Organizers report that preparations are in full swing as Kokand gears up to become a global center for handmade artistry from September 19 to 21.

Khurshed Akhmedov, Deputy Hokim of the Fergana Region, said this year’s festival marks a new level of engagement:

“This time, artisans registered online independently, demonstrating the growing international interest in the festival. We’ve also arranged special pavilions representing every region of Uzbekistan.”

A key feature of this year’s event is the International Pottery Forum in nearby Rishtan, a town famed for its ancient ceramic traditions. Another major highlight is the unveiling of a newly published book documenting the evolution of Uzbekistan’s crafts scene. Based on feedback from participants of the previous edition, the book serves both as a celebration of heritage and a guide for young artisans.

For the first time, the festival will also inaugurate a permanent Museum of Crafts, further cementing Kokand’s status as a hub of artisanal excellence.

Adjacent to Urda Street, a new artisan park featuring nearly 100 themed pavilions has been created. Visitors can engage with craftsmen, watch live demonstrations, and purchase unique handmade goods. In addition, a new gastronomic street offers guests a chance to sample traditional Uzbek cuisine.

The festival also shines a spotlight on ethno-tourism, with cultural events such as archery contests, kurash (Uzbek wrestling) matches, puppet theatre shows, and circus performances enriching the experience.

“The International Festival of Handicrafts in Kokand will no doubt evolve into a true celebration of art,” Akhmedov said.

As a testament to Uzbekistan’s cultural influence, it was also announced that a selection from the Uzbek literary anthology has been added to the rare works collection of the Qatar National Library, further enhancing the global reach of the country’s rich artistic heritage.