TEHRAN – Tomorrow, a festival celebrating the National Day of Villages and Tribes will be held in Fahraj county of Kerman province, southern Iran.

The occasion is held on the 15th of Mehr on the Iranian calendar (which falls on October 6 this year) with the aim of promoting nomadic cultural heritage and rural attractions, Fahraj’s tourism chief said on Saturday.

The festival is also intended to highlight the importance of preserving the natural landscapes of the county, some of which have been nationally recognized.

Hamid Vahidzadeh added another main objective of the festival is to raise awareness of protecting these registered natural sites and its significance.

The festival will feature a variety of activities, including an exhibition of rural and tribal handicrafts, traditional games, local cuisine, and other cultural and artistic performances, the official explained.  

The central theme of this year’s festival is the preservation of the Nebkhas, a unique national environmental treasure in Fahraj, Vahidzadeh said.

Iran, known for its rich history and diverse culture, is home to numerous villages and nomadic tribes. These communities have preserved ancient traditions and lifestyles, adding to the country’s cultural mosaic. Each village and tribe possesses unique customs, crafts, and skills that have been passed down through generations, contributing to Iran's vibrant heritage.

The rural areas of Iran, particularly in provinces like Kerman, are known for their scenic landscapes and cultural richness. Villages are often situated in breathtaking settings, surrounded by mountains, deserts, or forests.

Many of these areas are inhabited by tribal people who maintain traditional ways of life, such as the Qashqai, Bakhtiari, and Baluchi tribes. These groups are famous for their nomadic lifestyles, intricate handicrafts, and knowledge of the land.

According to organizers, the celebration of the National Day of Villages and Tribes underscores the importance of protecting both cultural traditions and natural resources, aligning with national efforts to promote sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.

AM