Mongolia is a land of vast landscapes, nomadic traditions, and unique cultural festivals that offer an authentic glimpse into its heritage. Travelers visiting Mongolia have the chance to experience events that aren’t just about celebration but also about community and history. If you’re planning a trip to Mongolia, timing your visit to coincide with one of these festivals will make your adventure truly unforgettable.
Naadam Festival
One of the most famous festivals in Mongolia is the Naadam Festival. Held every July, Naadam is often referred to as “the three games of men” and showcases Mongolia’s sporting traditions: wrestling, horse racing, and archery.
The festival dates back centuries. Locals dress in their best traditional clothes, and you’ll get to see massive crowds in festive spirits. The capital, Ulaanbaatar, is the main hub for Naadam, although smaller celebrations happen all across the country.
What can you expect? The atmosphere is electric, with parades, dance shows, and competitions. Don’t miss the wrestling matches and horse races where riders as young as five bravely guide their horses over long distances.
When: July 11-15
This is the time when the entire country celebrates Naadam, and it’s definitely an event worth timing your trip for.
Tsagaan Sar (Mongolian Lunar New Year)
Tsagaan Sar marks the beginning of the Mongolian Lunar New Year. It’s one of the most important holidays for Mongolians and is steeped in family and community traditions.
Tsagaan Sar literally means “White Month.” It’s a time for nomads and families to gather, reconnect, and share food. Travelers who visit Mongolia during this time might be lucky enough to receive an invite to a local’s home for a traditional meal featuring buuz (steamed dumplings), rice topped with a variety of meats, dairy products, and “white foods” like milk and curd.
The celebrations usually last for days, and locals wear their best deel (traditional clothing). Visiting monasteries, paying respects to elders, and sharing gifts are some of the key customs of the festival.
When: February (date varies)
Since it’s based on the lunar calendar, the exact dates change every year. Be sure to check in advance if you want to experience this cultural gem.
Golden Eagle Festival
If you’re looking for something truly unique, head to the Altai Mountains in western Mongolia for the Golden Eagle Festival. This event celebrates the skills and traditions of the Kazakh eagle hunters. It’s a rare opportunity to witness hunters and their eagles in action.
During the festival, eagle hunters, dressed in traditional attire, compete in various events to show off their hunting birds’ speed and precision. Along with eagle hunting competitions, there are also traditional games like “Kokpar,” a horseback tug-of-war played with goat carcasses. The festival provides a cultural immersion unlike any other.
When: Early October
It’s best to plan your visit in early October when the festival takes place near the town of Ölgii.
Nauryz Festival
Celebrated by the Kazakh population of western Mongolia, Nauryz is a festival that symbolizes the coming of spring. It’s a time of renewal and giving thanks, with feasts, traditional games, and performances marking the celebrations.
Nauryz is an ancient Persian New Year celebration and is widely celebrated across Central Asia. In Mongolia, you’ll find this festival full of warmth and joy as families and communities prepare special meals, visit the elderly, and offer blessings for the New Year.
When: March 21-22
The festival lasts for two days and is most commonly celebrated in the Bayan-Ölgii Province.
Danshig Naadam
If you’re looking for a more spiritual version of Naadam, check out the Danshig Naadam. It usually takes place in August and combines religious ceremonies with the traditional sports of Mongolian wrestling, archery, and horse racing.
Centered around Buddhist rituals, the event is a reflection of the country’s deep-rooted spiritual side. In addition to the sports, there’s chanting, mask dances, and performances by monks. This is a great opportunity to experience both religion and culture together.
When: August (exact dates vary)
The festival moves around, but it’s announced in advance. Keep an eye on the event dates if you’re interested in attending a highly spiritual Naadam.
Ice Festival (Khuvsgul Lake)
For those who don’t mind the cold, the Ice Festival on Lake Khuvsgul in northern Mongolia is a winter wonderland. Held in March, this event transforms the frozen lake into a playground of games and cultural performances.
The ice, which can be as thick as one meter, serves as a platform for activities like horse sled racing, ice archery, and tug-of-war. Visitors also get to see locals wear their traditional attire, making it a very colorful event despite the chill.
When: Early March
This is the perfect time to venture up north if you’re fond of winter sports and breathtaking cold-weather scenery.
Yak Festival
Yaks are an essential part of the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle, especially in rural and mountainous areas. The Yak Festival, held in the Arkhangai region, celebrates these incredible animals through races, cultural displays, and yak-related crafts.
Besides the fun races and games, it’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about the important role yaks play in the lives of Mongolian herders. You can even watch demonstrations on how yak wool is spun into fabric or try traditional yak dairy products.
When: Late July
Be sure to head to central Mongolia at the end of July to experience this celebration in Arkhangai Province.
Thousand Camel Festival
The Thousand Camel Festival, a two-day event, is held deep in the Gobi Desert and celebrates the role of the Bactrian camel in Mongolian culture. Organized by local nomadic communities, this festival features camel races, polo games, and much more.
Camels have been a crucial part of life in the harsh Gobi environment for centuries, and this festival honors their importance. It’s not just about admiring these magnificent creatures—you’ll also get to explore the lifestyle of nomads, sample authentic food, and enjoy traditional Mongolian music and dance performances.
When: March (first weekend)
If you dream of crossing the Gobi Desert, visiting during the Thousand Camel Festival adds a cultural dimension to your adventure.
Steppe Nomads Festival
This festival celebrates Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle, giving visitors the chance to experience the close connection between herders and their animals. Located in the lush Orkhon Valley, the Steppe Nomads Festival includes horse races, lassoing contests, and music performances.
It’s an ideal event for those who want to grasp the spirit of the nomadic way of life. Heritage tours, reindeer demonstrations, and traditional games complete the festive atmosphere.
When: Early August
Plan your trip in August if you’re looking to understand the deep relationship between Mongolia’s people and its natural environment.
Conclusion
When thinking about your Mongolian adventure, timing is key. These festivals showcase Mongolia’s vibrant culture and ancient traditions. Whether you’re interested in sport, religion, nature, or food, Mongolia offers a diverse range of events throughout the year. By planning your visit around these celebrations, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for everything that makes this country unique.
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