Events & Festivals in Mashhad

A platform for local and national theater troupes to present contemporary and traditional plays. Includes street performances, workshops, and competitions, bringing energetic performing arts to the city during the colder months.

A joyous celebration marking the birth of the 8th Shia Imam. The Holy Shrine is decorated with lights and flowers, and free sweets (*Nazri*) are distributed. Special prayers and festive gatherings create a jubilant atmosphere throughout the city.

The Mashhad segment of Iran's premier film festival features screenings of national and international competition films, workshops, and seminars with prominent filmmakers. It's a key event for cinema enthusiasts in northeastern Iran.

A major contemporary art exhibition held every two years, featuring painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art from artists across the Khorasan region and Iran. It's a key event for the local art scene.

A 10-day national period marking the 1979 Revolution's anniversary. In Mashhad, it features flag-lined streets, patriotic rallies, military parades, and evening light shows at the shrine and public squares.

The two-week celebration of the Persian New Year marks the spring equinox. Mashhad's parks and streets come alive with families picnicking on the *Haft-Sin* table, visiting the shrine, and enjoying public music and dance performances. The city has a festive, welcoming atmosphere.

A popular sporting event attracting amateur and professional runners from across Iran. The course often includes scenic routes, promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle within the community. Includes different race categories.

The 13th day of Nowruz, when everyone spends the day outdoors picnicking to avoid bad luck. Mashhad's parks, especially Mellat, Koohsangi, and Vakilabad, are packed with families enjoying food, music, and games.

Held at the city's large Book Garden complex, this festival features extensive book sales from numerous publishers, author signing sessions, literary workshops for children and adults, and cultural exhibitions.

One of Iran's most important commercial exhibitions, showcasing products and services from various industries including technology, handicrafts, agriculture, and tourism. A hub for business networking and public shopping.

A major Shia festival commemorating the appointment of Imam Ali as the Prophet Muhammad's successor. The Holy Shrine is spectacularly illuminated and hosts special prayers and ceremonies. The city is filled with a joyful, celebratory mood.

A specialized festival dedicated to the Persian goblet drum (Tombak) and traditional vocal music (Avaz). Features performances by masters, competitions for young artists, and educational workshops.

Held in the famous restaurant district of Shandiz, this festival celebrates the region's iconic *Shandizi* kebab (lamb or chicken on a skewer). Visitors can sample from various restaurants, watch cooking competitions, and enjoy live folk music.

The most solemn day in Mashhad, marking the martyrdom of the city's patron saint. The shrine holds profound mourning ceremonies, including lamentation prayers and processions. The atmosphere is one of deep grief and reverence.

The first month of the Islamic calendar sees intense mourning for Imam Hussein. Mashhad hosts nightly lamentations at the shrine, and the streets fill with massive processions (*dasteh*) of mourners chanting and performing chest-beating rituals (*sineh zani*).

Mashhad becomes a major gathering point for pilgrims walking to Karbala, Iraq. The city hosts massive *Mawkibs* (service stations) providing free food, lodging, and foot care. An awe-inspiring display of communal devotion and service.

Celebrating Khorasan's world-famous saffron. The festival includes exhibitions on saffron cultivation, cooking demonstrations featuring the spice, cultural performances, and opportunities to purchase high-quality saffron directly from farmers.

A showcase of exquisite Khorasani and Iranian handicrafts, including turquoise engraving (Firoozeh Koobi), prayer rug weaving, leatherwork, and miniature painting. Artisans demonstrate their skills, and items are for sale.

Features a series of concerts spanning traditional Persian, classical, and regional folk music. Held in prestigious venues, it brings together renowned national musicians and emerging talents.

A competition showcasing the ancient Iranian martial art of *Koshti Pahlavani*, performed to the beat of traditional drums. Wrestlers demonstrate strength, technique, and spiritual discipline in the *Zurkhaneh* (House of Strength).

The longest night of the year is celebrated with family gatherings. People stay up late, eating red fruits (pomegranates, watermelon), nuts, and reading poetry (especially Hafez). Many cafes and restaurants host special Yalda events.