Kandoleh Grape Festival in Iran to Attract Tourists with Unique Agricultural and Cultural Experiences

Published on December 17, 2025

In a move set to elevate rural tourism, Kandoleh Grape Festival in Sahneh County, located in Kermanshah Province, has been officially recognised and added to Iran’s national list of tourism events. This prestigious registration highlights the festival’s role in promoting local culture, agriculture, and tourism, while encouraging increased regional engagement and economic growth.

The festival, which celebrates the region’s rich grape harvest, is held annually in Kandoleh Village, a well-known rural destination within Sahneh County. According to Dariush Farmani, Head of the Kermanshah Cultural Heritage Department, this official recognition not only underscores the cultural and agricultural importance of Kandoleh but also allows for more organised and targeted tourism development.

A Boost to Rural and Agricultural Tourism

The registration of the Kandoleh Grape Festival brings fresh opportunities for rural tourism, helping to introduce the agricultural and cultural assets of Kermanshah’s rural communities to both domestic and international visitors. The event is an excellent example of event-based tourism, where festivals centred on local harvests and cultural expressions can stimulate both local economies and enhance tourist experiences. As a key tourism event, it also aims to introduce Kandoleh and its surroundings to a broader audience, boosting both interest and accessibility.

This recognition paves the way for more targeted tourism strategies, which can involve local artisans, farmers, and cultural experts in creating a more cohesive visitor experience. Moreover, such an initiative helps raise awareness of Iran’s agricultural diversity, particularly in provinces like Kermanshah, where agricultural products like grapes, apples, and pomegranates thrive. With rural tourism becoming a key focus for Iran’s tourism authorities, the festival’s official status will certainly promote more sustainable, community-led travel experiences.

Event Planning and Future Opportunities for Kandoleh Village

The national registration of the Grape Festival is not just about boosting visitor numbers; it’s about planning the event with precision. Farmani emphasised that this step allows for more strategic planning and the involvement of local communities in festival organisation. He stated that with this recognition, organisers can better engage locals and implement sustainable tourism practices that bring economic benefits while respecting local customs and agricultural cycles.

The success of this festival could also have a ripple effect on the region’s tourism industry, as more visitors are likely to discover the unique agricultural and cultural traits of Kandoleh Village and the surrounding areas of Sahneh County. Furthermore, it introduces an opportunity to showcase local food products, traditions, and crafts, with tourism-led employment and income generation possibilities for the community.

Growing Interest in Rural and Cultural Tourism

Iran’s growing interest in rural tourism is not limited to the Kandoleh Grape Festival. Local festivals and cultural events tied to the agricultural cycle have been recognised as essential vehicles for showcasing Iran’s natural beauty and rich heritage. The festival has the potential to be replicated across other parts of the country where agricultural regions hold cultural significance, particularly in places like Fars, Isfahan, and Golestan.

Tourism experts note that the cultural significance of agriculture, especially in rural villages, plays a large part in attracting those interested in experiential travel. Visitors seeking a deeper connection to Iran’s local traditions, culinary heritage, and natural landscapes will find in the Kandoleh Grape Festival an authentic, immersive experience. The festival invites tourists to explore the village’s beautiful vineyards, partake in harvest celebrations, and gain insights into the history of grape cultivation.

Promoting Economic Opportunities for Local Communities

In addition to the cultural impact, the Kandoleh Grape Festival has great potential for economic dynamism within the region. By increasing the festival’s profile, local tourism services such as guesthouses, local transport, and artisan markets can benefit directly from the event. Moreover, the emphasis on sustainable tourism ensures that these economic opportunities are available long-term, supporting both environmental conservation and local community empowerment.

The Kermanshah Cultural Heritage Department aims to further integrate cultural heritage, agriculture, and tourism, creating a model for integrated event-based tourism. This approach could inspire future festivals across Iran to combine local culture, agriculture, and tourism for long-term success.

A New Chapter for Kandoleh’s Tourism Landscape

The inclusion of the Kandoleh Grape Festival in the national tourism event list marks a pivotal step in promoting rural tourism in Kermanshah Province. With a growing focus on agricultural tourism and the cultural significance of local harvests, this festival has the potential to become a key attraction for travellers seeking authentic experiences in Iran. Its recognition will undoubtedly stimulate economic opportunities and raise awareness of the region’s agricultural richness, while also helping the local community thrive through sustainable tourism initiatives. By focusing on cultural diversity, agriculture, and local traditions, the Kandoleh Grape Festival sets a benchmark for future rural tourism events in Iran.