Discovering Kazakhstan: Kazakh Embassy Hosts Open House in Washington

Washington, D.C., May 6, 2023 – The Kazakh Embassy in Washington D.C. hosted an open house as part of the Annual Passport DC event welcoming visitors for cultural performances and traditional food and drinks. 

More than 3 000 people visited the Embassy on that day, showing much interest in Kazakh history, culture and customs. The local public enjoyed national dances and songs, listened to performances of musical compositions on the dombra (a national musical instrument) and tasted national dishes. The embassy demonstrated the betashar ritual, a ceremony of unveiling the bride’s face before the wedding.  

The Embassy also organized a fashion show of national dresses, displaying the entire palette of Kazakh costumes. The guests visited pavilions with a yurt, a traditional home of nomads, Kazakh national jewelry, dishes and literature, where the Kazakh diplomats presented and demonstrated our nation's history, culture and customs.

This year Kazakhstan Embassy was among more than 60 embassies in Washington, D.C. that opened their doors to coming guests.

Passport DC is a month-long worldwide journey highlighting Washington’s thriving international diplomatic community and lively and varied culture. The event encourages people to learn about other cultures and traditions through national food, fashion, art and music.