What Is the Naadam Festival?
The Naadam Festival, celebrated every July, is Mongolia’s most iconic cultural event. Known as the “Three Manly Games Festival”, it features wrestling, archery, and horse racing — skills once essential for Mongol warriors.
It is said that the secret behind the Mongol Empire’s conquest of half of the world can be found in the pivotal celebration of the Naadam Festival. It embodies national pride and serves as a splendid homage to Mongolia’s nomadic culture and traditions.
Participating in a Naadam tour is a magical and unforgettable experience, offering travelers opportunities to engage with locals, witness traditional ceremonies, and immerse themselves in Mongolia’s rich heritage.
The History of Naadam Festival
Naadam has roots dating back centuries. Chinese sources mention it during the Xiongnu period, while historical records show Mongol warriors practiced wrestling, horse riding, and archery before and after major battles.
Since the proclamation of the Great Mongol Empire in 1206, Naadam has evolved from a warrior’s physical training into a national festival. During the Qing dynasty, efforts were made to restrict traditional sports, but local communities kept the tradition alive through village-level celebrations.
After Mongolia’s independence and the People’s Revolution, the festival was celebrated nationwide and became an official national holiday, fixed annually from July 11–13.
When and Where the Naadam Festival Takes Place?
State Naadam Festival:
Dates: July 11–13 annually
Location: Ulaanbaatar, the National Stadium for wrestling, archery, and anklebone shooting; Khui Doloon Khudag open field (30–40 km from the city) for horse racing
Countryside Naadam: Each of Mongolia’s 21 provinces and 330 soums celebrates its own Naadam. These smaller festivals are perfect for visitors who want up-close experiences with participants and locals.
Naadam Festival Highlights
Wrestling – Strength and Tradition
Held over 2 thrilling days after the opening ceremony.
512–1024 wrestlers compete in a single-elimination tournament.
Wrestlers perform eagle-like dances and earn titles such as Falcon, Lion, or Garuda.
Guides are available to help visitors understand the rules and enjoy the excitement.
Horse Racing – Thunder Across the Steppe
Takes place at Khui Doloon Khudag, 40 km from Ulaanbaatar.
Races cover 15–30 km, ridden by children aged 7–13.
Soyolon race (July 12) showcases the fastest horses.
Locals believe that touching a winning horse or its dust brings good luck.
Archery – Aim for Glory
Competitions are held in teams of 10, open to both men and women.
Shooting distances: Men – 75m, Women – 60m.
Best archer earns the title “Mergen”.
Participants range in age from 5 to 30 years old.
Anklebone Shooting – Precision and Tradition
Officially added to Naadam in 2001.
Game requires precision, concentration, and hand-eye coordination.
Targets were originally sheep ankle bones, now plastic.
Bullets are made of deer antler, carried in decorative bags.
Opening Ceremony of the Naadam Festival
The grand Opening Ceremony takes place annually on July 11th at Ulaanbaatar’s National Stadium. Similar to the Olympic Opening Ceremony but with a traditional Mongolian flair, it features dance, music, and cultural performances, showcasing the best of Mongolia’s heritage.
How Mongolians Celebrate Naadam
During Naadam, most businesses close or operate with reduced hours, giving locals a week-long holiday. Families celebrate by:
Cooking traditional Khuushuur at home or sampling it at the festival grounds.
Wearing colorful Deels and attending the stadium to watch competitions.
Enjoying local treats like Airag, barbecue, and other delicacies.
In rural areas, nomads celebrate by riding their finest horses. Across Mongolia, Naadam brings joy, energy, and a sense of renewal to all.
Tour Name | Dates | Duration |
01 July – 12 July | 12 days | |
03 July – 15 July | 13 days | |
05 July – 12 July | 8 days | |
09 July - 22 July | 14 days | |
10 July-16 July | 7 days |
FAQs
How can I buy tickets for Naadam?
Tickets for the State Naadam Festival are sold online in advance. That is why it is best to secure tickets as part of a tour package for the main festival. Tickets for the Naadam opening ceremony are in high demand and can sell out quickly due to the limited seating at the stadium. Even for travel agencies, obtaining enough tickets — especially the best seats — can be challenging, and in some cases, tickets may need to be purchased at a significantly higher cost.
Can tourists attend all Naadam events?
Yes, visitors can attend wrestling, archery, and horse racing. Guided tours are available to help understand rules, traditions, and the significance of each game.
What should I wear to Naadam?
Visitors often wear comfortable clothes for walking and watching events. Traditional Mongolian deels are encouraged for a cultural experience but are not required.
How can I experience Naadam like a local?
Attend countryside Naadams in smaller towns for up-close interactions.
Try traditional foods and drinks with locals.
Participate in cultural activities, music, and dance performances.
