The International Balkhash Tour Fest – 2026 was successfully held in Balkhash.

The International Balkhash Tour Fest – 2026 was successfully held in Balkhash. On June 19–20, the city of Balkhash hosted the international tourism festival Balkhash Tour Fest – 2026, bringing together thousands of visitors from Kazakhstan and abroad. The festival became one of the highlights of the summer tourism season, showcasing the region's growing tourism potential. To ensure visitors' comfort and safety, free shuttle buses operated throughout the festival, transporting guests between Youth Square and the festival venue. Temporary traffic management measures were also introduced across the city, including adjustments to public transport routes, to facilitate smooth access to the event. During the festival, Irina Lyubarskaya, Head of the Tourism Department of the Karaganda Region, spoke about the region's tourism development. She noted that five new tourist routes had been launched this year and announced that the cultural, sports, and entertainment events initiated during the festival would continue until September 1, offering a diverse summer program for residents and visitors alike. The festival welcomed guests from 11 countries, highlighting the growing international interest in Balkhash as an emerging travel destination. Visitors explored the region's natural attractions, tourism opportunities, and a rich program of cultural and recreational activities held along the shores of Lake Balkhash. Balkhash Tour Fest – 2026 served as an important platform for promoting the tourism potential of the Karaganda Region, supporting the development of domestic and international tourism, and strengthening Balkhash's position as one of Kazakhstan's leading resort destinations.