Festivals in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is located at a crossroads between east and west. The majority of today's main towns and cities were previously trading sites along the historic Silk Road, which connected the riches of the east with profitable marketplaces in the west. This cultural fusion may be seen in the country's current celebrations, such as the ever-important Eid al-Fitr, a Muslim festival observed by approximately 90% of the population. Turkmenistanis are a proud people, as seen by the national holidays of Independence Day and Memorial Day in Turkmenistan. Melon Day is a fun festival to attend if you're looking for something different.

Melon Day is a new public holiday in Turkmenistan that was instigated in 1994 by the then-dictator Saparmurat Niyazov, commonly known as Turkmenbashi. It is held on the second Sunday in August every year and is centered on a unique crossbreed of the muskmelon, a vital crop for the country. A massive display of the fruit, as well as a succession of dances and other musical activities, are part of the day's festivities.