On May 18, 2025, in celebration of International Museum Day, the city of Shymkent hosted a large-scale cultural event — the “Museum Night” project. The main venue for the celebration was the “Shym Qala” Historical and Cultural Complex, located in the historic center of the city.
One of the evening’s key highlights was the opening of a brand-new exhibition hall titled “Treasures of Shym Qala”, featuring archaeological artifacts discovered in Shymkent and nearby regions, offering insight into the ancient history of the city.
Guests of the event enjoyed a variety of activities, including a craftsmen’s fair, interactive master classes, and guided tours. A special feature of the night was the participation of popular singer Kairat Tuntekov, who acted as a celebrity guide, introducing the audience to museum exhibits in an engaging and creative format.
Theatrical performances in various city museums captured public interest:
- Zhambyl Shanin Kazakh Drama Theatre at the Museum of Victims of Political Repression;
- Russian Drama Theatre at the Erlik Museum;
- Opera and Ballet Theatre at the Hakim Abai Museum;
- Uzbek Drama Theatre at the Sairam Museum.
The event concluded with a concert by Shymkent artists, and awards were presented to outstanding professionals in the fields of culture and museum work.
The event gathered historians, archaeologists, art critics, local historians, intellectuals, media representatives, and the general public.
