CHOMAN, Kurdistan Region - The annual skiing festival in Erbil's Balakayati area began on Thursday, attracting dozens of participants from the Kurdistan Region and Scandinavian countries.

Beyond the sporting competitions, the festival offers tourists a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s rich culture, explore its breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy its captivating scenery.

In addition to skiing events, the festival features a variety of cultural and artistic programs, enhancing the overall experience for visitors and participants alike.

Around 150 international athletes and nearly 200 local one performed snow skiing demonstrations in the snow-covered landscape of Weza village in Choman.

Bakhtiyar Bahjat is the supervisor of Choman Ski Team.

"Our presence from the beginning was one of the main factors in promoting this type of sport here to reach this stage. Apart from that, during the ice and cold season, depending on availability and time, we come to these areas once or twice a week with several friends who are able to practice and ski continuously," he told Rudaw. 

Mahbuba Aziz is a social media figure. She took a two-hour drive from Erbil city to Choman to take part in the event. 

"We had a really great time, especially trying skiing which truly has a special joy to it. I have tried it before, but since I am not an athlete, even falling is enjoyable," she said. 

Photos: Bilind T. Abdullah/Rudaw