The international cultural festival titled “Silk Road – 2026” was held at the “Oceana” Theater in New York City, USA.
The festival took place with the support of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan Diaspora Support Fund under the Committee, the Azerbaijan-American Alliance of Organizations, and was organized by Alyona Badalova, head of the “My Way” Children and Youth Creative Development Center, News Cover reports, citing Azerbaijan's State Committee on Work with Diaspora.
The main goal of the festival was to strengthen friendly relations between different communities, preserve cultural heritage, and foster respect for the diversity of world cultures among the younger generation.
The event, attended by more than 300 participants, showcased the cultures, national traditions, music, and dances of Azerbaijan, China, Mongolia, Georgia, Ireland, Spain, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and other countries.
Performances by students of the “My Way” Children and Youth Creative Development Center, including “Azerbaijan,” “Nalbaki,” “Yalli,” and Caucasian dances, were met with great interest and applause. The bright performances of young compatriots introduced guests more closely to Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage.
The “Caucasus” ensemble from Philadelphia, led by Arifa Akhundova, performed the Azerbaijani national dance “Jangi,” adding a special color to the festival.
During the event, New York City Comptroller Mark Levine and New York State Senator Steve Chan emphasized that the festival is an important platform bringing together different cultures and peoples.
New York State Assembly Member William Colton presented certificates of appreciation to sponsors and partners of the festival for their support in strengthening intercultural cooperation and cultural initiatives.
Participants were also awarded official certificates for their talent and contribution to preserving the cultural heritage of their respective nations.
The festival contributed to strengthening cultural ties between Azerbaijan and the United States, promoting Azerbaijani culture, and preserving national and moral values among the younger generation of the Azerbaijani diaspora.
