International Crafts Showcase Coming to Turkistan Featuring 140 Skilled Artisans
In the heart of Kazakhstan, the cultural and spiritual city of Turkistan is set to host a major event this month - the International Crafts Exhibition Turkistan 2025. This exciting occasion marks the first significant event to be held at Turkistan's newly built crafts center, a 2.5-hectare tourism cluster funded by approximately US$10.2 million in private investment.
The crafts center, located in the cultural and spiritual heart of the region, comprises 25 architectural sites, including craft workshops, exhibition pavilions, hotels, shopping areas, and public spaces. The event, organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, promises to be a vibrant blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern entertainment.
More than 140 masters of decorative and applied arts from Kazakhstan and abroad will participate in the exhibition, showcasing their unique skills in a variety of crafts. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, with opportunities to enjoy a hot air balloon show, the AVTOFEST car show, a gastronomic fair featuring national cuisine, prize draws, stage games, and a concert by well-known Kazakh artists.
Turkistan, officially recognised as a "city of artisans" on July 26, 2025, has been providing support for craftspeople who preserve Kazakhstan's historical and cultural traditions. The International Crafts Exhibition Turkistan 2025 is a testament to this commitment, positioning itself as a platform to showcase local and international craftsmanship, attract artisans, and celebrate cultural heritage through handicrafts.
For those planning to attend, the map of the location can be found on gov.kz. The event is scheduled from October 18-22, 2025, making it an unmissable addition to your calendar. Join us in Turkistan as we celebrate the rich tapestry of craftsmanship that spans centuries and continents.
After immersing themselves in a variety of traditional and contemporary crafts, visitors can indulge in shopping for home-and-garden goods, lifestyle items, and unique souvenirs at the crafts center's shopping areas. As the International Crafts Exhibition Turkistan 2025 favors artisans from Kazakhstan and abroad, it also provides an opportunity for local craftspeople to showcase and sell their work as part of the cultural heritage preservation movement.
