Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — From 6 to 8 June 2025, the ancient city of Bukhara is hosting the 21st edition of the traditional international festival “Silk and Spices.”

The event is held with the support of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the administrations of Bukhara Region and the city of Bukhara, the regional department of tourism, the craftsmen’s association “Hunarmand,” and other relevant organizations.

More than 50 masters of decorative and applied arts from ten foreign countries — including Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan — are participating in the festival. In addition, over 200 artisans from across all regions of Uzbekistan are showcasing their work.

Over the past two decades, the “Silk and Spices” festival has become a significant cultural event in the region, earning widespread recognition both among international visitors and the local audience. It is aimed at reviving and promoting the rich heritage of Uzbek folk art while also enhancing the country's tourism potential.

The grand opening of the festival took place today, June 6, with participants and guests taking part in a vibrant procession from the Ark Fortress to the architectural complex of Lyabi Hauz.

For three days, the city will host a variety of activities, including folk performances, masterclasses in traditional crafts, exhibitions and sales of silk products and spices, demonstrations of national sports games, the Silk & Spices Fashion Days featuring local and international designers, a pilaf celebration, and visual art and photography galleries.

In 2023, the 20th anniversary edition of the festival attracted around 10,000 foreign tourists, more than 15,000 domestic visitors from across the country, and over 500,000 residents of Bukhara Region. This year, organizers expect around 50,000 guests from abroad and from various regions of Uzbekistan.

The “Silk and Spices” festival is a vivid example of the harmonious blend of ancient traditions and contemporary cultural dialogue, transforming Bukhara into a hub of international attention and bringing together artisans, performers, and lovers of art and tourism from around the world.