Mongolian Festivals

National Naadam Festival

The Nadaam festival is one of the most renowned and celebrated events in Mongolia. It serves as the National Holiday and typically takes place from July 11th to July 13th. The festival centers around the three traditional Mongolian "manly sports," which are wrestling, horse racing, and archery. These competitions have a deep-rooted history and are thought to have originated as part of celebrations during weddings and other spiritual gatherings.

The primary Nadaam festival is held in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, and is widely televised and broadcasted throughout the entire country. It's a time when the nation comes together to closely follow and cheer for the athletes competing in these sports.

However, many smaller Naadam festivals also occur in various aimags (provinces) across the country throughout the month of July. These smaller festivals provide a more intimate and up-close experience with the Nadaam festivities and offer an excellent opportunity for visitors to witness and be part of the action.
   

Danshig Naadam-Khuree Tsam

Danshig Naadam-Khuree Tsam is a remarkable and culturally significant festival in Mongolia, notable for its fusion of religious and traditional aspects. This festival typically takes place at the beginning of August and brings together the time-honored practices of Buddhism with the lively essence of the Naadam Festival.

At the heart of Danshig Naadam-Khuree Tsam is the captivating "Khuree Tsam" dance. During this performance, monks don colourful masks representing a variety of deities, heroes, and mythological characters, creating a visually stunning spectacle. These dances are not only artistic expressions but also bear profound religious significance, symbolizing the spiritual connection between the people of Mongolia and their Buddhist heritage.

The festival presents a unique opportunity for visitors to deeply engage with Mongolia's rich culture and history, witnessing the harmonious coexistence of religious traditions and cultural festivities. Danshig Naadam-Khuree Tsam embodies the nation's cultural diversity and spiritual devotion, making it a truly captivating and enriching experience for all who attend.
   

Other Festivals

Other famous festivals include Tsagaan Sar (Mongolian New Year) and Maidar Ergekh. The New Year celebration is a complex one and includes long preparation and sophisticated rituals. Tsagaan Sar (the white month), the first month of spring, has been one of the most important celebrations of Mongols for centuries. This is a time of the year when winter passes away and spring comes in.

The Maidar ergekh is Buddhist tradition and its aim is to present the Fifth Buddha (Buddha pf the Future) and to pray for rebirth in Heaven.