The town of Khurmal in the Halabja Governorate has hosted the seventh edition of its annual festival dedicated to edible wild plants and spring herbs, attracting visitors and vendors from across the Kurdistan Region.
This year’s three-day event featured 55 vendors offering more than 25 varieties of wild spring herbs, which are widely consumed and highly valued in the region. With the arrival of spring, the plains and mountains of Kurdistan become rich in these natural plants, which are an important part of local food culture.
The festival also included displays of traditional handicrafts and cultural products from the Hawraman and Shahrizor regions. Among the featured herbs and foods were kenger, rhubarb, loosh, and kaner, all of which are commonly used in local cuisine.
Organizers said the event aims to highlight the region’s natural environment, support local producers, and promote tourism. It also provides an opportunity for farmers and craftswomen to introduce their products directly to visitors.
Held annually in the centre of Khurmal district, the festival has become a popular spring attraction, drawing large numbers of tourists from different cities across the Kurdistan Region.
