Ashgabat, December 27 | ORIENT. The main marathon of New Year's celebrations officially kicked off in the capital of Turkmenistan. Today, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov attended a festive performance at the country's Main New Year's Tree, erected in the square in front of the Älem Center.

The square in front of the cultural and entertainment center was transformed into a huge theater stage. The head of state, along with young guests from all regions of the country, the city of Arkadag, and the capital, took part in a traditional round dance.

A symbolic moment of the celebration was the address by characters representing the outgoing year 2025 and the coming year 2026. Children dressed as a snake and a horse invited the President to join the circle, embodying the continuity of years and the inseparable connection of traditions.

The celebration continued in the hall of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where the focus shifted to cultural diversity. Members of the Government with their children and grandchildren, and the heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Turkmenistan, along with their families, joined the celebration.

This format emphasized the country's openness and the importance of family values. Children recited poems in various languages, and creative competition winners presented a program that included both folk tunes and classical works of world music.

The celebration was particularly vibrant with artists from the Turkmen State Circus and Puppet Theater. Their performances, combining skill and humor, provided a vibrant finale to the show. Following the program, each child received New Year's gifts on behalf of the President, and a commemorative photo taken at the Main New Year’s Tree commemorated Turkmenistan's transition into the new year of 2026—the Year of the Purposeful Horse.

Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished the country's young citizens wonderful holidays and success in their studies, noting that their talents are the main asset of the country's future.