The Carpet Festival in Azerbaijan

The Azerbaijani Carpet Festival is a colorful celebration of the country’s vibrant history and historical tradition of carpet weaving. This 2-day festival commences yearly on May 5th, “Khalchachi Day” or “Carpet Makers Day”.

This holiday was decreed in 2016 by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan to honor the carpet markers and recognize their significance to Azerbaijani cultural heritage.  In 2024 the first carpet festival, Baku Icherisheher (Old City), was celebracarpet festival bakuted in the old city, making this festival a new tradition. 

To truly appreciate what this festival has to offer, read below.  

What activities to expect at the Azerbaijan Carpet Festival

The Azerbaijan Carpet Festival has a wide range of activities to explore. From observer to participant, visitors can dive deeper by hitting up exhibitions, museums, shops, demonstrations, and more.   

Historical Exhibitions

Pop-up museums and exhibitions displaying beautifully woven carpets, many with placards, tell the tale of art and artists. Visitors can walk through displays, view the various artist's work, learn about the weavers, and ask the exhibitionist questions about the pieces. These exhibits are wonderful if you want to explore the art slowly, take in the intricate colors, and learn more about its history. 

Workshops

For those itching to participate, workshops provide ample opportunity. Learn the difference between vertical and horizontal looms and how technology has changed them over time. Attempt a few weaves yourself and learn of the patience and practice it takes to wrap the threads under pressure.  

If carpet weaving is not your thing, there are many other types of workshops available. Learn the art of dying threads, discover how the intricate designs are made, or even the finishing touches, such as how to complete the final wash of the carpet. 

Modern Display

Modern and evolutionary displays showcasing carpet weaving throughout Azerbaijan’s history provide a unique background into how these pieces have evolved. Local artists display their current pieces and showcase a modern twist on a classic design. This festival not only recognizes ancient artists but provides a platform for new and established weavers to display their works.

The art of carpet weaving in Azerbaijan itself has been labeled “intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO. Showcasing the importance of this ancient craft. The Azerbaijani Carpet Festival not only underscores the importance of its cultural significance but also attempts to preserve this iconic artwork. Supporting modern carpet weavers allows this craft to be preserved for future generations. 

Old Traditions of Azerbaijan

Carpet weaving has been an integral part of Azerbaijan's cultural history for centuries. Each region of Azerbaijan holds a distinct style, unique in its design, colors, and material type. The four styles of carpet weaving are “Guba-Shirvan”, “Ganja-Gazakh”, “Karabakh”, and “Tabriz”. Over 600 design types can be distinguished, and each carpet has a unique use. Carpet’s throughout Azerbaijan history has played a major role in Azerbaijan life. From window covers to flooring and door mats to artistic displays. Woven carpets are passed down, and each piece is a part of history. 

Not only does the Azerbaijan Carpet Festival play a crucial role in preserving carpet making locally, but it also promotes it on the world stage. Attracting international recognition and attention worldwide. 

Cultural Exchange

Beyond the important cultural role and work of preservation that the carpet festival serves, it also serves as a platform for cultural exchange. International participants, artists, academics, and tourists are attracted from around the world. Promoting diversity and a greater understanding of Azerbaijani culture and traditions. The festival also highlights other Azerbaijan customs, such as traditional dancing, music, cuisine, and clothing. This allows visitors to learn and appreciate Azerbaijan as a whole and educate themselves on these iconic people. 

The festival also is a rich presentation of carpet-marking as an art form. The exchange of ideas and broadening appreciation for carpet weaving helps preserve this art form globally. Opening up opportunities for international collaboration and partnerships. 

Economic Benefits

The Azerbaijan Carpet Festival has been shown to provide a significant boost to the local economy. The uptick in tourism boosts the hospitality sector, providing hotels, restaurants, and local businesses with an influx of customers. The festival marketplace also becomes an opportunity for local artisans to sell their crafts. Supporting the artistic community, to help sustain this traditional art form for future generations. The increased visibility of Azerbaijan during the festival may lead to future tourism and investment in the region, making the long-term benefits of the festival admirable. 

The Azerbaijan Carpet Festival is not only a cultural celebration, it is a platform for cultural exchange, a vector for economic growth, and a preservation of tradition. Visitors attending the Azerbaijan Carpet Festival will not only be exposed to intricate designs, vibrant colors, and artistic styles, but they will also have the opportunity to connect with local people and artists. 

To experience this unique cultural event and explore the beauty of Azerbaijan, consider applying for a visa and attending the next festival. Visit azerbaijanevisaonline.com for more information on how to obtain your visa and start planning your trip.