Jetisu's Apple Blossom Festival draws 7,000 to rare wild orchards in 2026
The Sievers Apple Blossom Festival drew over 7,000 visitors to Jetisu Region on May 2, 2026. Held in Zhosar-Alatau State National Natural Park, near Topolevka, the event showcased the region’s rare wild apple groves in full bloom. Organisers aimed to boost tourism and highlight Jetisu’s natural beauty on a global scale. The festival centred on the Sievers apple, a wild species native to the area. Jetisu Region hosts nearly half of the world’s remaining Sievers apple trees, making the event a celebration of local biodiversity. Attendees explored blooming orchards, joined guided tours, and took part in an en plein air art competition.
An international art project brought together creators from Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, and Kazakhstan. Alongside visual arts, the programme featured traditional sports, artisan workshops, and cultural displays. The day concluded with a concert headlined by Kazakh artists Bayansulu and Uandyq Rakhim.
More than 50 bloggers and influencers attended to document the festival, spreading awareness of Jetisu’s tourism potential. The event’s inclusion in the national calendar underscored its role as a major cultural and promotional platform. The festival’s mix of nature, art, and music attracted thousands while reinforcing Jetisu’s reputation as a travel destination. With global attention on the Sievers apple and the region’s landscapes, organisers hope the event will drive long-term tourism growth. Future editions are expected to build on this year’s success.
