Azerbaijan to host National Carpet Festival for first time PHOTO

Azerbaijan will celebrate its rich tradition of carpet weaving with the inaugural National Carpet Festival in Baku's Icherisheher (Old City) on May 4-5, 2024.

Co-organized by the Administration of State Historical Architectural Reserve “Icherisheher” and Azerkhalcha OJSC, and supported by the Ministry of Economy, Azerbaijan Export and İnvestment Promotion Agency, the festival promises a vibrant showcase of the art of carpet weaving, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Administration. 

The two-day festival will feature a diverse array of events, including exclusive exhibitions displaying ancient, modern, and designer carpets. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in carpet weaving masterclasses, educational seminars, interactive theatre performances, and enjoy a fair, mugham evening, and concert program.

The streets of the Old City will be adorned with carpets and special decorations, creating a colourful and magical atmosphere.

Visitors interested in the art of carpet weaving can explore every stage of the process, from dyeing threads to weaving and washing carpets.

Skilled artisans from "Azerkhalcha" OJSC, representing 14 regions of Azerbaijan, will provide hands-on demonstrations directly on the loom. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Science and Education will host stands at the festival.

Dedicated to the professional holiday of "Carpenter's Day," established by President Ilham Aliyev in 2016, the National Carpet Festival aims to promote and safeguard Azerbaijan's rich tradition of carpet weaving, recognized as UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage.

All residents and guests of Baku are invited to join the festivities and celebrate the artistry and cultural significance of Azerbaijani carpet weaving at the inaugural National Carpet Festival.