Tourists and locals flocked to ancient Uzbek city of Khiva on Friday as the annual melon festival dubbed 'Kovun Sayli' made a triumphant return.
Footage shows artists performing traditional dance routines while singing folk songs as vendors provided attendees with a variety of succulent melons.
The event has historical significance for Uzbekistan and is an important part of its cultural heritage. For Uzbeks, melons symbolise fertility, abundance and hospitality. Melon growing techniques have been passed down from generation to generation, while the fruit has become a symbol for the country.
The festival also features concert programs, fine art shows, handicraft exhibitions and competitions. This year's edition is scheduled for August 9-11 on the territory of the Ichan-Kala State Museum Reserve.
Tourists and locals flocked to ancient Uzbek city of Khiva on Friday as the annual melon festival dubbed 'Kovun Sayli' made a triumphant return.
Footage shows artists performing traditional dance routines while singing folk songs as vendors provided attendees with a variety of succulent melons.
The event has historical significance for Uzbekistan and is an important part of its cultural heritage. For Uzbeks, melons symbolise fertility, abundance and hospitality. Melon growing techniques have been passed down from generation to generation, while the fruit has become a symbol for the country.
The festival also features concert programs, fine art shows, handicraft exhibitions and competitions. This year's edition is scheduled for August 9-11 on the territory of the Ichan-Kala State Museum Reserve.
Tourists and locals flocked to ancient Uzbek city of Khiva on Friday as the annual melon festival dubbed 'Kovun Sayli' made a triumphant return.
Footage shows artists performing traditional dance routines while singing folk songs as vendors provided attendees with a variety of succulent melons.
The event has historical significance for Uzbekistan and is an important part of its cultural heritage. For Uzbeks, melons symbolise fertility, abundance and hospitality. Melon growing techniques have been passed down from generation to generation, while the fruit has become a symbol for the country.
The festival also features concert programs, fine art shows, handicraft exhibitions and competitions. This year's edition is scheduled for August 9-11 on the territory of the Ichan-Kala State Museum Reserve.