Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — From 1 to 3 August, Samarkand will host its first-ever Pilaf Festival—an extraordinary culinary event aimed at bringing together chefs, tourists, and lovers of Eastern cuisine from around the world to celebrate Uzbekistan’s rich gastronomic heritage.

The “Samarkand Pilaf” Festival will feature competitions involving more than 200 pilaf masters, cooking masterclasses from top chefs, exhibitions of traditional sweets and handicrafts, as well as a vibrant cultural program with performances by Uzbek pop stars. A major highlight will be an international cooking contest and the grand preparation of seven tons of Samarkand-style pilaf at the Boqiy Shahar complex.

This event will not only be a feast for the senses but also a major step forward in the development of gastronomic tourism in Uzbekistan. The festival offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the ancient city of Samarkand and immerse themselves in the spirit of true Eastern hospitality.