Samarkand celebrates traditional City Day (photos) 

On the traditional Samarkand Day, the city's central parks and squares were crowded with local residents and guests of the city.

October 18 has been celebrated as the Day of Samarkand since 1996. In particular, yesterday the 23rd celebration of the festive event was organized in the central parks and squares of the city.

The event has been traditionally started at the Amir Temur Mausoleum with the Quran recitation in honor of the great leader. The event was attended by khokim of the region Erkinjon Turdimov and other regional department heads.

During the festive event that began in the morning, the streets were crowded with people. Pilaf was served for visitors, concerts of national and folk songs, various exhibitions and fairs were organized. Traffic was restricted on streets. Free access was granted to all historical monuments and museums.

Eco-marathon for the Aral Sea was also held on the occasion of the holiday. The second stage of the marathon, which started in Tashkent and was supposed to be ended in Muynak, was held in Samarkand. 

The City Day was also attended by foreign tourists along with local residents. 

In the evening, fireworks dedicated to the City Day was also organized.