SheberFEST-2026 Unites 100 Artisans in Atyrau's Vibrant Crafts Festival
The international SheberFEST-2026 crafts festival has opened in Atyrau’s Sultan Beibarys Square. Running until May 23, the event brings together nearly 100 artisans from Kazakhstan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. Visitors can explore handmade works, join workshops, and experience traditional culture under one roof. The festival showcases around 4,000 handcrafted items, from felt art and jewellery to woodcarvings and ethno-design textiles. Organisers have set up themed zones styled as traditional semi-yurts, creating an immersive setting for guests. Activities include an ethno-fashion parade, a display of Kazakh national cuisine, and demonstrations of traditional games.
Serik Shapkenov, the regional governor, attended the opening to tour the exhibits. He highlighted the need to preserve and promote traditional crafts, calling the festival a key platform for young people to engage with heritage. Artisans are also leading master classes, allowing visitors to try their hand at crafting under expert guidance. Beyond workshops, the event features live performances and a concert programme. The festival’s goal is to support master craftsmen while making national art more accessible to younger generations.
SheberFEST-2026 will continue through May 23, offering a mix of hands-on workshops, cultural displays, and entertainment. The festival provides a space for artisans to share their skills and for visitors to connect with Central Asian traditions. Nearly 100 craftsmen from four countries are taking part in this year’s edition.
