Palangan Set to Host Vibrant Traditional Music Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Harmony!

Get ready for the Hezar-Daf Festival, an exciting cultural event set to take place in Palangan village, located in the picturesque Kordestan province of Iran. This annual festival not only showcases the rich heritage of the region but also aims to put Palangan on the map as one of the World Best Tourism Villages. With its stunning landscapes and historical significance, Kordestan is drawing more attention from tourists and travelers alike.

According to Mansour Mehrzad, the director general of Kordestan’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Department, this year’s festival could represent a significant opportunity for Palangan’s registration on the prestigious World Best Tourism Villages list. The Iranian Association of Architects has designated this year to highlight Kordestan province, a region celebrated for its abundant historical monuments and villages with unique architectural styles. Here are some key points about Kordestan:

• Historical Significance: Nearly 300 hectares of Sanandaj, the provincial capital, are classified as historical.
• Other Historic Sites: Bijar and Saqqez are also known for their rich historical heritage.
• Tourism Growth: Kordestan is rapidly becoming a sought-after tourist destination.

Last year, the province welcomed an impressive 12 million tourists, with approximately 534,000 visitors coming between March 15 and April 4, marking an 18% increase compared to the previous year. Among these visitors, nearly 44,734 were international tourists. This surge in tourism underscores Kordestan’s potential as a vibrant travel destination.

Currently, Kordestan offers around 6,000 residential beds for tourists, which is insufficient to accommodate all guests. To meet the growing demand, efforts are underway to expand the residential capacity to 41,000 beds, utilizing both formal and informal ecotourism sites. This growth is essential for ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors exploring the region’s beauty.

In addition to its natural appeal, Kordestan has made strides in preserving its cultural heritage. This year, six tangible and intangible heritages from Kordestan have been recognized and registered on the National Heritage List. Notably, the traditional game of backgammon has received national recognition, with its roots traced back to Kordestan. The proposal for backgammon’s national registration was initiated in 2011, and it was officially titled in 2016.

Palangan, one of Kordestan’s oldest villages, has become a focal point for cultural tourism. The village recently hosted approximately 50,000 tourists in April 2024, coinciding with the Hezar-Daf Festival. This festival, which translates to “one thousand drums” in Persian, serves as a platform for showcasing the region’s rich musical and artistic traditions.

The inaugural Hezar-Daf Festival took place three years ago and has since evolved into a significant cultural celebration. Held on the last Friday of the first month of the Persian calendar, the festival attracts various drumming and artistic groups, transforming Palangan into a hub of cultural activity. Each year, the festival is celebrated with grandeur, drawing tourists from near and far, making it one of the most cherished customs of this historic village.

As the Hezar-Daf Festival approaches, it promises to be a vibrant tapestry of music, tradition, and community spirit. Attendees can look forward to a weekend filled with lively performances, traditional crafts, and the chance to experience the unique cultural identity of Kordestan. This year’s festival may not only celebrate the past but also pave the way for Palangan’s future recognition on the global tourism stage.

In conclusion, the Hezar-Daf Festival in Palangan village is more than just an event; it is a celebration of Kordestan’s rich heritage and an important step towards achieving international recognition. As tourism in the region continues to flourish, the festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and culture of the people of Kordestan. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this vibrant celebration and explore the historical treasures that Kordestan has to offer.