On March 20, 2022, a "Navruz Gastro Festival" was held on Alisher Navoi Street in Samarkand, organized in cooperation between the Uzbekistan Chefs Association and the Samarkand Regional Administration.

The event was held on the eve of the national holiday of Navruz with the aim of widely promoting the rich traditions of national cuisine, supporting both amateur and professional chefs, and showcasing the gastronomic potential of Uzbekistan to the world.

As part of the festival, a series of competitions featuring national dishes were organized. In particular, the kebab competition was held in five categories:

• Minced meat kebab (“Qiyma” kebab)

• Beef kebab

• Lamb kebab

• Chicken kebab

• Mixed (creative) kebab

In addition, chefs competed in preparing plov (pilaf), sumalak, and khalisa. Bakers showcased their skills in making samsa and bichak.

At the end of the event, the winners and all participants were awarded special prizes, certificates, and diplomas.