TEHRAN -- Iran’s sixth International Exhibition of Rural and Nomadic Achievements concluded on Sunday at the Tehran International Exhibition Centre, bringing together rural producers, nomadic communities, artisans and performers to showcase the country’s cultural diversity and economic potential.
Held from October 8 to 11, the four-day event featured traditional music, regional cuisine, handicrafts and displays of customs and ceremonies from communities across Iran. 
More than 400 exhibition booths were planned to present provincial products and capabilities, while 50 booths were designated for startups and technology-related activities, according to reports ahead of the event.
One of the exhibition’s main attractions was its cultural program, which featured approximately 500 performers in 40 groups presenting regional music and traditional performances. 
The opening ceremony included a collective rendition of Ey Iran, a patriotic song celebrating the country’s national identity.
Visitors also sampled local foods, including traditional soup, yoghurt-based drinks and nomadic kebabs, while watching demonstrations of regional customs and tribal wedding ceremonies.
The exhibition drew families and other visitors interested in discovering Iran’s diverse cultural traditions. However, some attendees and exhibitors said broader publicity could have attracted larger crowds.
A Tehran resident told the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) that a planned one- or two-hour visit had extended to more than five hours because of the variety of activities. 
The visitor also called for stronger promotion through the media and urban advertising to increase public awareness of future editions.
Exhibitors likewise emphasized the value of presenting local traditions directly to urban audiences, while noting that more extensive publicity could have increased attendance.
Beyond its cultural displays, the exhibition sought to promote rural and nomadic products and strengthen economic opportunities for communities whose livelihoods depend on agriculture, livestock, handicrafts and tourism.
Jahanbakhsh Mirzavand, head of Iran’s Nomadic Affairs Organization, said the event provided a platform to showcase the capabilities of rural and nomadic populations. 
He highlighted the importance of sustainable livelihoods, diversified income sources and the development of local production and ecotourism.
Farshid Zabihi, director of nomadic affairs in Tehran province, also pointed to the province’s diverse nomadic population, which includes Lur, Turkic and Persian communities organized into five tribal groups and 27 subtribes.
The exhibition’s conclusion underscores the potential for cultural events to connect traditional producers with new audiences and markets.