Mongolia celebrates its National Day on July 11, marking the establishment of an independent Provisional People’s Government in 1921. This date coincides with the start of the Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s largest annual gathering, which runs from July 11 to 15.
Naadam’s origins trace back to Mongolia’s Hunnu Empire in 209 BC, originally as a test of Mongol warrior skills. Today, it showcases Mongolian culture through the “Three Manly Sports” of wrestling, horse racing, and archery, now open to all genders.
Ulaanbaatar’s National Stadium hosts the main Naadam events from July 11 to 13. The festival begins with a vibrant opening ceremony featuring parades of athletes, monks, soldiers, musicians, and traditional Chinggis Khan-style attire. A highlight is the ceremonial procession of the Nine White Flags of Chinggis Khan from the State Parliament House to the Central Stadium.
Naadam extends across Mongolia’s 21 provinces, uniting urban centers and remote Gobi towns in celebration of Mongolian identity and history. It offers an opportunity for Mongolians to reconnect with their cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, and sports.
💕 Mongols National Day has dawned! The celebrations have commenced. To all World Mongols and our cherished friends, Happy NAADAM! 🎉 pic.twitter.com/RNEXQzdGpN
— Mongol Tsakhia ELBEGDORJ (@elbegdorj) July 10, 2024
.
