Published on
August 21, 2025
Freiburg, Germany, recently pulsed with the colours and flavours of Uzbekistan at the Uzbek Culture and Cuisine Festival that showcased the country’s culture and cuisine. Organised by Uzbekistan’s embassy in Germany and driven by the tireless Evgeny and Yulia Schatz, the event transplanted a vibrant corner of Central Asia into the heart of Europe. Visitors savoured the warmth of Uzbekistan’s welcome, sampled fragrant pilaf and delicate samsa, and discovered the country’s landscapes and hospitality, all presented with the hope of forging closer ties with the German public.
Bringing Uzbekistan’s Rich Heritage to Germany
The festival was designed to not only share the flavours of Uzbekistan but also to foster a deeper cultural exchange between the people of Germany and Uzbekistan. Held in the picturesque city of Freiburg, located in southwestern Germany, the event was an opportunity for locals and visitors to experience the customs, art, and cuisine of Uzbekistan, a country known for its ancient history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality.
A central theme of the festival was food, as Uzbek cuisine is renowned for its rich flavours and unique cooking techniques. Uzbekistan is known for its hearty, flavourful dishes, and the festival’s visitors were treated to a wide variety of these traditional meals. Some of the most popular dishes included samsa (savoury pastries filled with meat and vegetables), pilaf (a rice dish typically cooked with lamb or beef), and tandoor-roasted meats. These dishes are staples of Uzbek culture and represent the country’s diverse culinary traditions, which have been influenced by the Silk Road trade routes that passed through the region.
One of the highlights of the culinary offerings was a pilaf masterclass, led by the chef from the Uzbekistan Embassy in Germany. Pilaf, or plov as it’s called in Uzbekistan, is one of the country’s signature dishes, and the chef expertly demonstrated how to make this beloved dish, showing attendees the various steps involved, from preparing the meat and rice to adding the perfect balance of spices. The masterclass was one of the most popular attractions, with visitors eager to learn the secrets of making perfect pilaf and experience the distinctive flavours of Uzbekistan.
Exhibitions Showcasing Uzbekistan’s Artistic Heritage
While food was undoubtedly a central focus of the festival, it was not the only way attendees could immerse themselves in Uzbek culture. The event also featured exhibitions that showcased the country’s rich artistic traditions. One of the most striking displays was a collection of national costumes. These garments, often made of brightly coloured fabrics, are beautifully designed and reflect Uzbekistan’s diverse cultural influences and historical depth.
Additionally, intricate suzani embroidery was on display, which is a traditional form of needlework native to Uzbekistan. Known for its vibrant patterns and stunning detail, suzani embroidery is a form of artistic expression that has been passed down through generations. Alongside these embroidered pieces, there were also displays of atlas-adras fabrics, another important element of Uzbek culture. These handwoven silks are often used to make traditional clothing and are highly prized for their vivid colours and intricate patterns.
The festival also presented a variety of artwork reflecting life in Uzbekistan. Visitors had the opportunity to see paintings and other visual art that depicted scenes of daily life, landscapes, and historical events. These artworks provided a window into the culture, people, and history of Uzbekistan, offering insights into the country’s unique place in the world.
Interactive Workshops for All Ages
In addition to the exhibitions, the festival featured a number of hands-on workshops that allowed visitors to engage with Uzbek culture in an interactive and fun way. One of the most popular workshops was focused on Ebru painting, a traditional form of Turkish marbling that has been practiced in the region for centuries. Attendees were guided through the process of creating their own marbled artworks, learning how to swirl vibrant paints on water and then transfer the patterns to paper. The workshop offered a creative and enjoyable experience for people of all ages, allowing participants to explore a piece of Uzbek heritage through art.
Furthermore, traditional Uzbek games were introduced to festival-goers. These games are often played in outdoor settings and serve as an important part of Uzbek social life. The games were a fun and engaging way for visitors to learn more about the culture and interact with one another in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
Promoting Uzbekistan’s Tourism and Cultural Exchange
One of the key objectives of the festival was to promote Uzbekistan as a tourism destination, and the event certainly achieved this goal. An information stand was set up with brochures in both German and English, providing detailed information about Uzbekistan’s tourist attractions. The stand highlighted famous landmarks such as the ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, each of which is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors were able to learn more about the country’s historical and cultural significance, as well as the various travel options available for those wishing to explore Uzbekistan’s treasures.
The festival also underscored the importance of cultural exchange between Germany and Uzbekistan. By showcasing Uzbekistan’s food, art, and traditions, the event helped bridge the gap between the two countries, fostering greater understanding and respect. It also helped to highlight the importance of maintaining and celebrating cultural heritage in today’s globalised world.
The organisers, Evgeny and Yulia Schatz, expressed their excitement about the success of the festival and emphasised their commitment to promoting Uzbekistan’s culture abroad. They also noted that their efforts to bring people to Uzbekistan through organised tours to historic cities like Samarkand and Shakhrisabz would continue, offering travellers the chance to experience Uzbekistan’s wonders in person. The tours, which have become an annual tradition, are designed to introduce visitors to the country’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Looking Ahead: More Cultural Events to Come
With an eye on the coming years, the team behind the Uzbek Culture and Cuisine Festival in Freiburg aims to widen the festival’s horizons even further. Annually, they intend to weave fresh destinations, immersive experiences, and vibrant cultural programmes into the schedule, enhancing the festival’s appeal to every visitor. Increased worldwide fascination with Uzbekistan makes these gatherings vital to nurturing richer cultural exchange and sparking curiosity to explore one of the world’s most captivating nations.
The festival in Freiburg was not only a joyful day for Uzbek culture; it was a lively example of how cultural exchange can truly connect people. As each group shared its music, games, food, and stories, neighbours from different corners of the globe got to step into one another’s shoes, if only for a moment. This shared learning created a colourful tapestry where every thread was a different tradition, showing us that our world’s beauty lies in its many customs.
