Turkmen Food and Cultural Festival in Seattle Draws Over 2,000 Guests

On May 18, 2025, the vibrant community of Seattle came together to celebrate diversity, unity, and heritage at the Turkmen Food and Cultural Festival hosted by Oasis Foundation. Held at Shoreline Community College from 11 AM to 5 PM, the event welcomed more than 2,000 attendees from a mosaic of cultural backgrounds including Seattle Turkmens, Turks, Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Kyrgyz, Tatars, Russians, Ukrainians, Chinese, Japanese, South Koreans, Europeans, Americans, Indians, Pakistanis, Iranians, Afghans, and more.

This dynamic cultural gathering served as a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the shared human love for food, music, dance, and friendship. As the largest Turkmen event of the year in the Pacific Northwest, it brought together families, performers, entrepreneurs, and cultural organizations under one roof to create an unforgettable experience.

A Cultural Mosaic of Performances

The festival was bursting with live performances that lit up the stage and the crowd. Nalini, an acclaimed Indian classical dancer, captivated the audience with her elegant moves. Artists from Azerbaijan and Turkey delivered powerful musical and cultural performances, while the Tatar community joined in with rhythmic beats and traditional instruments. The diverse lineup was a beautiful representation of Seattle’s thriving international communities.

More than just a stage show, the performances were interactive. Guests were invited to dance, clap, and share in the joy. Community members and performers bonded through shared rhythms and spontaneous dances that echoed the festival’s spirit of inclusion and celebration.

Authentic Turkmen Cuisine That Delighted Everyone

Of course, no cultural festival is complete without food—and this one delivered in spectacular fashion. Guests enjoyed traditional Turkmen dishes like palov, manty, a wide variety of colorful salads, and homemade desserts like Medovik, freshly prepared by the local dessert business Chefbond. The aromas of saffron rice, slow-cooked lamb, and spiced dumplings wafted through the air, creating a sensory experience that delighted all.

Attendees sat at long communal tables, enjoying warm plates of food, chatting with strangers turned friends, and watching live performances. It was a scene of joy, peace, and connection that truly showcased the power of food as a unifying force.

Strong Community Support and Generous Sponsors

This unforgettable event was made possible by the passionate work of volunteers and the generous support of local businesses and organizations. Cafe Sabah Kirkland proudly served as the main sponsor, fueling the festival’s success with heart and hospitality.

Gold sponsors included Anna R Tseytlin Law Firm—which also organized engaging competitions and community activities—alongside Bcozy Furniture, whose team shared warmth and style with guests.

Silver sponsors such as Chefbond, Balbalini, WestStar Printing, and Mina Montessori Academy proudly represented their businesses while contributing to the welcoming environment. Their presence added tremendous value and inspiration to the cultural showcase.

Wide Media Coverage Elevates Community Voices

The success of the Oasis Foundation organized Turkmen food and cultural festival caught the attention of the media, and rightly so. The event was featured in over 300 news outlets, including major national platforms such as AP, Fox News, and NBC, as well as Seattle’s local channels like KOMO 4 TV. This wide media coverage amplified the voices of Seattle's immigrant and cultural communities, spreading a message of peace, diversity, and mutual respect across the nation.

A Day of Peace, Fun, and Gratitude

The atmosphere throughout the day was joyful and harmonious. Children laughed and danced, elders exchanged stories, and newcomers were welcomed with open arms. For many, the festival was not only a chance to reconnect with their roots but also to introduce their cultures to neighbors and friends.

Guests left with full stomachs, warm hearts, and a deeper understanding of the Turkmens in Seattle, Washington—a community rich in tradition, talent, and generosity. From flavorful dishes to spirited performances and heartfelt conversations, the Turkmen Food and Cultural Festival was a beautiful embodiment of what happens when communities come together in celebration.

Looking Ahead

This year’s success sets a powerful precedent for future festivals. With growing interest, increased participation, and strengthened community ties, the Seattle Turkmens and their extended cultural family are ready to continue building bridges through celebration.

The Oasis Foundation, through events like these, remains committed to creating inclusive spaces where cultures are not only preserved but shared and celebrated. As Seattle continues to grow as a hub for global communities, festivals like this remind us of the shared humanity that connects us all.