Gorgan in Iran’s Golestan province is preparing for its fourth annual Cotton Festival, scheduled for October 2 at Tooska Farm along Tooskestan Road. Held under the slogan “From Farm to Garment”, the festival highlights the province’s tourism opportunities while honoring its deep agricultural traditions. Cotton, often called the “white gold” of Golestan, has long played a vital role in the region’s culture and economy, and the festival serves as a modern celebration of this heritage.
Organizers describe the festival as far more than a simple gathering. It is designed as a cultural bridge that connects farming practices, traditional crafts, and indigenous rituals with contemporary tourism. Reza Ghiasizadeh, head of Gorgan’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department, explained that the event reinforces Golestan’s identity while showcasing its potential as a vibrant tourism destination. He emphasized that cotton has historically shaped the livelihood and cultural memory of local communities.
The Cotton Festival is being jointly organized by Tooska Tourist Farm and the Green Women of Orsham Art and Business Institute, with strong support from the Golestan Cultural Heritage Department. Its recognition in Iran’s National Tourism Calendar in September 2024, with registration number 20323860, reflects the growing importance of the event both nationally and regionally.
Visitors can expect a wide range of experiences. Interactive workshops will guide participants through the journey of cotton, from spinning and dyeing to weaving and embroidery. Exhibitions of traditional Golestan clothing, handicraft markets, and farm-fresh products will showcase the creativity and skill of local artisans. Music and dance performances, rooted in regional traditions, will immerse guests in Golestan’s living culture. The program will also feature tributes to farmers, artisans, and veterans, reinforcing the festival’s sense of community pride.
By blending agriculture, heritage, and creativity, the Cotton Festival is both a celebration and an educational experience. It promotes sustainable practices along the cotton value chain while giving visitors a chance to witness authentic cultural expression. For locals, it is a reaffirmation of identity, and for tourists, it offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience Golestan’s vibrant traditions firsthand.
Gorgan’s Cotton Festival 2025: Celebrating Heritage & Boosting Tourism
