International Gastronomic Festival “National Dishes of the Khorezm Khans” Held in Khiva

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 20–21 September 2025, the “Arda Khiva” complex hosted the International Gastronomic Festival “National Dishes of the Khorezm Khans,” dedicated to promoting the rich culinary heritage of Khorezm.

The festival was organized in accordance with the Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated November 18, 2024 (No. PQ-394) as part of efforts to develop the tourism potential of the Khorezm region.

The main goal of the forum was to showcase the unique traditions of Khorezm cuisine on the international stage, expand opportunities for gastronomic tourism, and increase the flow of both domestic and foreign tourists. Khorezm cuisine, which has developed over centuries, has long been renowned beyond Uzbekistan, and the festival became another step toward its popularization.

The festival program included:

Tastings of national dishes, from ancient recipes to modern interpretations of Khorezm cuisine.

Masterclasses on preparing traditional treats.

Folklore and cultural performances, including national dances, concerts, and musical shows featuring DJs.

A scientific-practical conference discussing the prospects of gastronomic tourism.

Restaurants and gastronomic projects from the region participated in the event, introducing tourists to the richness of Khorezm traditions. Representatives of local and foreign media, bloggers, and gastronomy experts were invited to the festival.

Special attention was given to the entrepreneurial aspect: the festival served as a platform for establishing cooperation between catering businesses and tourism entities, concluding new contracts, and implementing joint projects.

The festival concluded with a competition in which the best dishes were evaluated by experts from the Uzbekistan Chefs Association, and winners received awards in various categories.

Guests were also treated to a concert program featuring Khorezm artisans, singers, and musicians.

The International Festival “National Dishes of the Khorezm Khans” offered visitors a unique gastronomic and cultural experience, highlighting the tourist appeal of Khorezm and Uzbekistan as a whole.