The Culture and Arts Festival officially began in 1968 under the direction of Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Arts. Its primary objective was to preserve, document, and celebrate the country’s immense cultural diversity while encouraging cooperation among artists from different provinces. Rather than concentrating cultural activities exclusively in Tehran, the festival emphasized nationwide participation and regional representation.
One of the festival’s greatest achievements was its inclusive nature. Artists from villages, small towns, and major cities were invited to present performances and exhibitions that reflected their local traditions. This approach provided many regional performers with opportunities to reach audiences they might otherwise never have encountered.
The organizers believed that every province possessed valuable artistic traditions worthy of preservation. Consequently, local musicians, storytellers, actors, poets, artisans, and dancers participated alongside established cultural figures. The festival became a meeting place where different generations exchanged knowledge, skills, and artistic ideas.
