Qovun Sayli: How Khorezm Turned Its Harvest into a Festival

The annual Qovun Sayli ("Melon Festival") celebrates this long-standing tradition in the city of Khiva. The event is organized by Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee together with the Khorezm regional administration.

The festival is traditionally held at the Ichan-Kala historical complex and the Arda Khiva tourist complex.

From Harvest to Celebration

Qovun Sayli brings together agriculture, traditional craftsmanship, and the cultural heritage of the Khorezm region. During the festival, districts from across the region showcase locally grown agricultural produce, while artisans present their crafts and traditional skills.

The program features exhibitions of melons and other agricultural products, handicraft fairs, theatrical performances, folk music and dance, concerts, national costume shows, masterclasses on Uzbek cuisine and traditional Khorezm bread-making, as well as exhibitions of decorative and applied arts.

The festival also includes a competition, with participants receiving commemorative awards and prizes.

Looking Back

In 2024, Qovun Sayli was held from 9–11 August at the Ichan-Kala State Museum-Reserve. The program featured agricultural exhibitions, craft fairs, tightrope performances, puppet theatre, concerts, and masterclasses on preparing traditional Uzbek dishes and Khorezm bread.

In 2025, the festival took place from 8–10 August. Events were hosted at Ichan-Kala and Arda Khiva, where districts of the Khorezm region presented pavilions showcasing local melon varieties and other agricultural products. The program also included craft exhibitions, theatrical performances, concerts, and culinary masterclasses.

An August Tradition

Qovun Sayli is traditionally held in August, when local melon varieties reach their peak season. During these days, Khiva hosts agricultural exhibitions, cultural events, and craft fairs that introduce visitors to the traditions and heritage of the Khorezm region.