Tengrinews.kz — A drone show held in Astana on the eve of Capital City Day, which left many spectators disappointed, was not authorized by the city akimat (administration). According to officials, the organizers failed to submit the mandatory notification for the event. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances of the show, including potential violations of advertising laws.
Public anticipation for the festive show
On the evening of July 5, thousands of residents and visitors gathered near the Atyrau Bridge. Social media promotions had billed the event as a spectacular drone show, promising hundreds of UAVs, light figures, and a vibrant display in the sky.
Many families with children traveled to the waterfront, braving traffic jams and waiting a long time for the start. However, the performance itself turned out to be brief, and a significant portion of the program consisted of logos and announcements for upcoming concerts.
Following the show, a wave of criticism erupted on social media. Spectators wrote that they expected a festive program dedicated to Capital City Day but were instead presented with advertisements. Some complained about spending several hours commuting and waiting for such a short performance.
Roots of the misunderstanding
The show took place on the evening of July 5—the eve of Capital City Day. Due to the date, location, and the wording used in announcements, many residents assumed it was part of the official holiday schedule.
Project representatives later explained that the event was a commercial venture and was not dedicated to Capital City Day. According to them, the show's advertising format was misinterpreted by part of the audience and several information platforms.
In a public statement, they also claimed that all necessary approvals for the event had been obtained.
Akimat: No notification received
Meanwhile, on July 22, the Astana Akimat reported that they had received no notification regarding the drone show.
"No decisions regarding the approval, organization, or conduct of the specified event were made. No contracts, agreements, memorandums, or other documents were signed between the Astana City Akimat and the organizers of the event," the agency stated.
The Akimat specifically emphasized that the drone show was not part of the official Capital City Day celebrations and was not organized by the city.
Regulatory requirements for public events
Under current regulations, organizers of large-scale cultural and entertainment events must provide written notification to the local executive body no later than ten calendar days before the event.
The notification must include the event program—either a schedule or a script. According to the Akimat, the established procedure was not followed in this case.
Current status of the investigation
The administration believes the organizer's actions may show signs of violating the established order for conducting mass cultural events, referring to Article 488-1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses.
An investigation into the matter is underway. Specialists are also reviewing the content of the drone show to determine if it contained elements of unfair or hidden advertising, or any other potential violations of advertising legislation.
"Based on the results of the review, a corresponding legal assessment of these circumstances will be provided," the Akimat stated.
A final decision will be made once the investigation is complete.