Text by: Mirkomil Fayziyev Press Secretary of the Mayor of Bekobod City
The international “Uzum Sayli” festival, celebrating Uzbekistan’s centuries-old viticulture traditions, distinctive landscapes, and renowned hospitality, will take place on August 21–22 in Zarkent village, Parkent District, Tashkent Region. Known for its foothill landscapes, pristine air, and ancient farming traditions, Parkent will become an international showcase for viticulture and Uzbek national culture during the two-day event. The festival’s main objective is to promote Uzbekistan’s centuries-old experience in grape cultivation, local grape varieties, traditional farming practices, as well as the country’s rich gastronomic and handicraft heritage.
Grapes: A Harmony of Nature and Human Labor
Viticulture is one of Uzbekistan’s oldest agricultural traditions. It is significant not only as an economic activity, but also as an important element of the country’s cultural heritage, passed down from generation to generation. The village of Zarkent in Parkent is a vivid example of these enduring traditions. Here, grape cultivation is closely intertwined with the local way of life, work culture, and the distinctive character of the region. “Uzum Sayli” brings these traditions into a contemporary festival setting, providing an opportunity to introduce local heritage to international visitors and a wider audience.
Festival Program: Science, Tradition, and Modernity on One Stage
The significance of “Uzum Sayli” extends far beyond an agricultural exhibition.
The festival also provides an important opportunity to showcase Parkent’s natural and tourism potential. The picturesque foothills of Zarkent, vineyards, traditional cuisine, handicrafts, and the warm hospitality of local residents come together to create a distinctive experience for visitors. Today, travelers around the world are increasingly interested not only in historical landmarks but also in forms of experiential tourism that allow them to engage more closely with local lifestyles, gastronomy, nature, and traditions.
In this context, “Uzum Sayli” deserves recognition as an important event showcasing the cultural heritage and tourism potential of Uzbekistan’s rural regions.
A Region’s History in Every Grape
Grapes are far more than an agricultural product in Uzbek culture. They are cherished as a symbol of the table, hospitality, abundance, and human labor. Behind every vineyard lies an entire culture of work: preparing the soil, caring for young vines, waiting for the harvest, and cultivating grapes through knowledge and experience passed down across generations. For this reason, “Uzum Sayli” can be viewed not simply as a harvest celebration, but as a cultural festival that brings together nature, human labor, national values, and hospitality.
Another Step Toward Uzbekistan’s New Tourism Identity
Taking place in Zarkent on August 21–22, the festival will not only showcase the traditions of the local community but also help introduce Uzbekistan’s modern tourism potential to an international audience. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover a variety of grape varieties, enjoy traditional Uzbek cuisine, explore handicrafts, and experience the unique natural beauty of Parkent.
“Uzum Sayli” represents something greater than a celebration centered around a single fruit. It is a cultural bridge that reflects Uzbekistan’s relationship with the land, human labor, nature, and its guests.
For two days, the vineyards, traditional music and songs, handicrafts, gastronomy, and ancient traditions of Zarkent village will come together in a contemporary festival atmosphere. Perhaps this is the greatest value of “Uzum Sayli”: the opportunity to share Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage with the world, beginning with the vineyards of a single region.