Khiva Melon Festival Sets Guinness World Record

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The Melon Festival, held in Khiva on 7–9 August, set a Guinness World Record for the largest melon tasting, with 259 people simultaneously sampling more than 10 melon varieties. The Uzbekistan Tourism Committee said.

The festival was held at the Ichan-Kala historical complex and the Arda Khiva tourism center. According to the organizers, 186,000 people attended the event, including 150,000 local residents and 36,000 foreign tourists.

The world record was officially recorded in Khiva on 9 August 2026. Guinness World Records official judge Sheyda Subashi Gemici, the organization’s representative for Turkey and Central Asia, participated in the verification process.

The festival was organized by the Tourism Committee in cooperation with the Khorezm regional administration. The program included performances by artists, master classes, exhibitions and competitions. Russian singer Maksim performed for guests on the final day.

Stands representing districts of Khorezm region, farms and other participants showcased dozens of melon varieties, regional products, modern technologies and agricultural achievements. Visitors could taste different melon varieties and learn about Khorezm’s agricultural traditions.

In the competition program, third place was shared by Urgench State University, the Khorezm branch of UzAuto and the Khorezm Regional Road Administration. The Khorezm Regional Department of Agriculture took second place. The administration of Yangiarik district won first place, while the main prize went to the Khiva city administration.

The organizers said the festival aims to develop agrotourism, promote Khorezm’s gastronomic heritage and increase the region’s appeal as a tourist destination.