International flower festival expects to draw nearly one million foreign tourists from over 50 Countries

Namangan, one of the oldest and most vibrant regions of Uzbekistan, is preparing to host the 65th edition of the internationally acclaimed International Flower Festival, with organisers expecting nearly one million foreign tourists from more than 50 countries and over seven million local visitors during the 50-day celebration

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th May, 2026) Namangan, one of the oldest and most vibrant regions of Uzbekistan, is preparing to host the 65th edition of the internationally acclaimed International Flower Festival, with organisers expecting nearly one million foreign tourists from more than 50 countries and over seven million local visitors during the 50-day celebration.

The festival, which will run from 24 May to 12 July, has become one of Uzbekistan’s largest and most colorful cultural events, showcasing the country’s rich traditions, tourism potential, and growing international engagement.

Located at an altitude of around 450 metres above sea level, Namangan is among the most densely populated regions of Uzbekistan, with a population exceeding three million people, said a release issued here on Friday.

Covering an area of approximately 7,900 square kilometres, the region is known for its dynamic public life, economic activity, and cultural heritage that dates back more than two thousand years.

The Flower Festival was first launched in August 1961 as a local flower exhibition. Over the decades, it evolved into a major cultural celebration and officially attained international status in 2018. Since then, it has attracted participants, artists, tourists, and experts from around the world.

Preparations for this year’s milestone edition are currently in full swing across the city and surrounding districts. Authorities have planted nearly five million seasonal flowers to transform the region into a vibrant floral landscape ahead of the festivities.

One of the most anticipated highlights of this year’s event is a possible entry into the Guinness World Records.

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Organisers are attempting to set a world record for the largest-scale flower planting completed within a month. The process is reportedly being monitored by UAE-based representative Kanzy Defrawy to ensure compliance with international standards and transparency requirements.

The grand opening ceremony will take place on 24 May at Babur Park. A flower-decorated car parade will pass through the city streets, while a gala concert featuring local and international artists will be held later in the evening at the amphitheater of New Uzbekistan Park.

Throughout the festival, visitors will enjoy a diverse programme featuring theater performances, puppet shows for children, handicraft exhibitions, cultural fairs, workshops, and daily concerts in public parks and venues.

Several high-profile events are also scheduled for late May and early June, including open-air symphony concerts, retro music evenings, “Fashion Days” runway shows, a lavender festival, and a special concert by renowned Uzbek singer Yulduz Usmonova. A spectacular drone show is planned for 1 June.

Sports enthusiasts will have the opportunity to attend wrestling contests, motocross competitions, ethnosport games, and various international tournaments organised as part of the celebrations.

In addition to entertainment, the festival will host international forums and conferences focusing on biodiversity, tourism, artificial intelligence, economics, and investment, underlining its broader scientific and economic significance.

The festival will conclude on 12 July with an official closing and award ceremony at New Uzbekistan Park, bringing to an end one of Central Asia’s most anticipated cultural celebrations.