On October 21, Almaty Resort, a branch of Ok-Zhetpes Health and Wellness Complex JSC in Almaty, hosted its traditional festival celebrating International Apple Day. The event brought together gastronomy, folk traditions and music. Guests were invited to sample dishes and baked goods prepared in-house, explore a craft fair, visit a themed photo zone, take part in traditional games and enjoy a concert featuring Kazakhstani performers.
One of the festival’s main highlights was a special gastronomic programme prepared by the resort’s culinary team. Over two days, 15 specialists led by restaurant head chef Madiyar Kydyrbayev created a variety of treats featuring fresh apples and other locally sourced ingredients.
The festive buffet featured apple roses made from puff pastry, strudel, doughnuts, muffins, mini pies, sweet buns, marmalade and other desserts. One of the more unusual dishes was pilaf with slow-cooked apples, an original creation by the culinary team. The centrepiece of the gastronomic display was a sculpture made from 100 kilograms of apples.
“We prepared for the festival in advance, selecting recipes, experimenting with new flavour combinations and coming up with dishes that would surprise our guests. Some ideas came to us right in our own kitchen. One example is the pilaf with slow-cooked apples. For us, this was an opportunity to show just how many different dishes can be made using familiar local ingredients,” said Madiyar Kydyrbayev, the restaurant’s head chef.
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by a themed photo zone and a craft fair showcasing handmade products by local artisans. A special place was also given to drawings and crafts inspired by apples and autumn, created by the children of resort employees.
“The health of our nation is our greatest priority. Apple Day is especially close to our hearts because apples are a rich source of vitamins and nutrients. This year, our chefs prepared a wide variety of desserts and baked goods. We always strive to come up with something new to delight and surprise our guests. It is wonderful to see how much Almaty residents enjoy this celebration and how many families come to join us,” said Gulzhanat Bugubayeva, Director of Almaty Resort.
The celebrations concluded with a concert featuring Kazakhstani artists and creative ensembles. Performers included renowned singer, composer and showman Nurlan Yespanov, singer Anara Ayazbayeva, singer Daniyar Karabalayev, the State Dance Ensemble of the Republic of Kazakhstan “Saltanat” and a grandmothers’ ensemble.
The apple was chosen as the festival’s main symbol for good reason. The wild Sievers apple tree grows in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains and is considered by scientists to be one of the ancestors of modern apple varieties. The fruit has long been a symbol of Almaty, reflecting the region’s natural wealth and distinctive character.
For Almaty Resort, the Apple Day Festival has become a cherished annual tradition celebrating gastronomy, culture and health. Every year, the resort organises the event for residents and visitors, introducing them to local traditions, treating them to freshly prepared baked goods and creating a welcoming space for families to spend quality time together.
