Events and Public Holidays

Mongolian Naadam Festival is a national holiday and is so traditional, colorful, and thrilling event, held in July, annually all over the country. Known as the “three manly games” –the legendary sporting games, are horse racing, wrestling, and archery, it has happened for thousands of years on the Mongolian steppe since Chinggis Khaan’s period. Read more

The Golden Eagle Festival or Eagle Festival is an annual traditional Festival of Kazakh eagle hunters in Bayan Olgii aimag, western Mongolia. This fascinating festival to bring and promote their unique heritage to their next generation to the world. The Kazakh eagle hunters catch small animals such as foxes and hares with specially trained golden eagles, showing off the skills both of the birds and their trainers.

The Danshig Naadam and Khuree Tsam festival are one of the biggest and ancient religious cultural festival of Mongolia. Originally, Danshig (Tibiten-Tenshuk) relates to the enthronement ceremony of his Holiness Zanabazar (1635-1722), the spiritual head of Mongolian Buddhism and also a direct descendant of the Great Chinggis Khan.

 

Mongolia has eight legal holidays in a year, including New Year’s day, Lunar New Year, International Women’s day, Children’s day, Naadam holiday, Republic Day, Chinggis Khaan’s birthday and Independence Day of Mongolia.

The Mongolian Lunar New Year, known as Tsagaan Sar, is a significant cultural celebration marking the beginning of the lunar calendar year. It typically falls in late January or February and is a time for family reunions and traditional rituals. Tsagaan Sar translates to "White Moon" in reference to the white color symbolizing purity and new beginnings.

During Tsagaan Sar, families gather to honor their ancestors and elders, offering greetings, gifts, and partaking in elaborate feasts. Traditional customs include wearing colorful traditional clothing called "deel" and exchanging snuff bottles, symbolizing respect and good wishes. The celebration emphasizes unity, respect for heritage, and hopes for prosperity in the coming year, making it a cherished and vibrant part of Mongolian culture

Mongolia's winter festivals are diverse and reflect the country's rich cultural heritage. Alongside Tsagaan Sar and the Ice Festival, the Thousand Camel Festival in the Gobi Desert celebrates the importance of camels in nomadic life, featuring races, performances, and competitions. The Golden Eagle Festival in Bayan-Ölgii showcases the ancient tradition of eagle hunting, where Kazakh eagle hunters demonstrate their skills and compete for mastery. These festivals not only preserve Mongolia's traditions but also provide opportunities for locals and visitors to engage with its unique cultural practices. They typically include music, dance, traditional clothing, and delicious local cuisine, creating a vibrant atmosphere that highlights Mongolia's enduring nomadic spirit even in the coldest months.

The Mongol Nomadic Show is a vibrant cultural performance that celebrates the traditions and heritage of Mongolia. It showcases traditional Mongolian music, throat singing (Khoomei), and energetic dances like the famous horse-head fiddle dance. Performers often wear colorful costumes adorned with intricate patterns and symbols representing nomadic life. The show typically includes demonstrations of traditional Mongolian sports such as wrestling, archery, and horse racing, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle's connection to nature and physical prowess. Overall, the Mongol Nomadic Show offers a captivating glimpse into Mongolia's rich cultural tapestry and its deep-rooted nomadic traditions.

2024 list of festivals and events in Mongolia