🎉 Bayan-Ulgii Naadam, Festival of the Three Manly Sports

🇲🇳 Naadam in Bayan-Ulgii, Mongolia’s Traditional Summer Celebration

🏹 Bayan-Ulgii Naadam Festival (July 10–11)

  • 📍 Location: Ölgii Naadam Stadium
  • 🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
  • 📅 Dates: July 10–11
  • 📏 Distance: 2 km west of Ölgii city center

🎉 Overview

Bayan-Ölgii Naadam is the most important summer festival in western Mongolia, celebrating the country’s ancient traditions, nomadic heritage, and athletic skills. Held every year on July 10–11, the festival brings together local Kazakh and Mongolian communities in a colorful display of culture, sport, and celebration.

Naadam highlights the legendary “Three Manly Sports of Mongolia”:

  • 🤼 Traditional Mongolian Wrestling
  • 🏇 Horse Racing
  • 🏹 Archery

🥇 Festival Highlights

  • 🎭 Opening Ceremony (July 10): A vibrant cultural performance featuring traditional costumes, music, dances, and ceremonial parades.
  • 🤼 Wrestling Competitions: Wrestlers compete over two days wearing traditional outfits, testing strength, balance, and endurance.
  • 🏇 Horse Racing: One of the most exciting events, with races stretching up to 30 km, involving dozens of young jockeys and horses from across the aimag.
  • 🏹 Archery Tournament: Archers demonstrate precision and focus using traditional bows, following centuries-old rules.

🍽️ Food & Local Atmosphere

Naadam is as much about food and socializing as it is about sport. Around the stadium, visitors can enjoy:

  • 🥛 Airag – fermented mare’s milk
  • 🥟 Huushuur – fried meat-filled pastries
  • 🧀 Aaruul – dried curds and traditional dairy snacks

Local vendors also sell handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing, creating a lively festival atmosphere.

🌍 Why Attend Bayan-Ölgii Naadam?

  • Experience Mongolia’s national festival in a unique Kazakh-dominated region
  • Enjoy a free, authentic cultural event
  • Combine Naadam with trips to Altai Mountains, Eagle Hunter families, and Tavan Bogd National Park

✨ Tip: Arrive early on race days and bring sun protection. July weather is generally warm and dry, perfect for outdoor celebrations.