Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 21–22 June 2025, in the heart of London’s Potters Field Park, set against the iconic Tower Bridge, the traditional festival celebrating the tourism, culture, and national cuisine of Uzbekistan was held to great acclaim. The vibrant event became a major highlight in the British capital’s cultural calendar, bringing together enthusiasts of Eastern culture, gastronomy, and art.

The festival was organized through a joint effort by the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan, Chustiy Group, the Uzbek cuisine restaurant OshPaz in London, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in the United Kingdom, the Ministry of Culture, and the national airline Uzbekistan Airways. Thanks to their collaboration, London became a hub of Uzbek culture for two days.

More than 100 representatives of Uzbekistan’s arts, crafts, and tourism sectors took part, including folk artists, renowned fashion designers, representatives of national brands, tour operators, and talented chefs.

Visitors had the chance to explore Uzbekistan’s tourism potential, discover new destinations and travel routes, admire the originality and craftsmanship of artisan products, enjoy fashion shows featuring traditional costumes, watch live performances, and experience the mesmerizing Lazgi dance. A highlight of the event was the culinary showcase devoted to the cuisine of the Khorezm region.

As part of the business program, the “Uzbekistan – United Kingdom” tourism forum was held, bringing together representatives of the travel industries of both countries. Presentations were delivered in a “Road Show” format, and B2B meetings opened new avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation in the tourism sector.

One of the standout attractions was the “Product of Uzbekistan” trade fair — held in London for the first time. More than 20 leading exporters from Uzbekistan showcased over two tons of goods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, melons, legumes, semi-processed and ready-to-eat food products, all grown and produced in Uzbekistan.

The climax of the festival was the preparation of a massive three-ton plov by legendary chefs Bakhriddin Chustiy and Muzaffar Sodikov, founder of OshPaz. A kazan (cauldron), oven, and all ingredients were specially brought from Uzbekistan to authentically recreate the national dish’s traditional flavor.

The festival was widely promoted across London. Banners reading “Welcome to Uzbekistan” adorned over ten double-decker bus routes, appeared at metro stations, and lit up LED screens in central areas of the city. Announcements about the event were also published in one of the UK’s most popular food magazines — BBC Good Food.

The Uzbek Culture and Cuisine Festival in London was not only a celebration for thousands of attendees but also a significant step in promoting Uzbekistan’s image on the international stage. It showcased the richness of the country’s cultural heritage, culinary diversity, and tourism appeal, further strengthening cultural ties between Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom.