Kazakhstan to host international crafts expo at new cultural center

ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — More than 140 artisans from Kazakhstan and around the world will gather later this month for an international crafts exhibition titled “Turkistan – City of Craftspeople”, spotlighting traditional decorative arts and cultural heritage.

The event will take place in the southern city of Turkistan, a historic Silk Road hub that has recently emerged as a major cultural tourism destination. 

As reported by The Astana Times, the exhibition will be the first major event hosted at Turkistan’s newly built crafts center — a sprawling 2.5-hectare complex designed to support the country’s growing cultural economy.

Funded through approximately $10.2 million in private investment, the center includes 25 architectural structures such as artisan workshops, exhibition halls, hotels, retail areas, and public spaces aimed at showcasing Kazakhstan’s rich artistic legacy.

Beyond the crafts exhibition, visitors can expect a vibrant schedule of cultural events including a hot air balloon display, an AVTOFEST car show, a food fair offering national cuisine, interactive stage games, prize giveaways, and live performances by celebrated Kazakh musicians.

Recognized as the cultural capital of the Turkic world, Turkistan officially gained the designation of “City of Artisans” in 2025 — a title that reinforces its role in preserving Kazakhstan’s heritage through support for craftspeople and traditional arts.

The upcoming exhibition is part of broader efforts to position Kazakhstan as a regional leader in cultural tourism and creative industries, blending ancient heritage with modern infrastructure and international collaboration.