ASTANA – The 5th World Nomad Games in September will once again celebrate the rich traditions of nomadic culture while incorporating the best of other cultures. Over seven days, participants from 89 countries will compete in 21 sports, from archery and racing to wrestling and tug-of-war, as well as traditional games from other countries such as ovali and ordo.
This year’s event marks the first time that Kazakhstan will host the games. The first World Nomad Games was held in the Kyrgyz Republic. The Kyrgyz city of Cholpon-Ata hosted the international competition three times, in 2014, 2016 and 2018. The fourth World Nomad Games will be held in Iznik, Turkey in 2022.
Why is Kazakhstan hosting the World Nomad Games?
Speaking to the Tengri News Agency, deputy head of the national sports association Bakhitshan Turlibekov said the event was more than just sports.
The World Nomad Games highlights Kazakhstan’s membership of a nomadic civilization and demonstrates the country’s pride in its traditional sports, he said.
According to Trulibekov, there is high tourist interest in nationwide sports events and locals are excited about the revival of traditions.
“The results are encouraging – people are aware, there is interest and there is a desire to get involved,” he said.
Trulibekov also said that taking part in the Nomad Games was a great honor for an athlete of a national sport.
“Thirdly, with the Nomad Games approaching, we will see aesthetically pleasing renovated racecourses and sports facilities. These positive changes will undoubtedly contribute to the sustainable development of sports in the country,” he said.
“Now our capital can host international-level competitions in all domestic sports,” Trulibekov added.
The competition will take place across six streets arranged according to the “straight line” principle, with all the facilities aligned along a single axis: Astana Arena Stadium, Khazanat Racecourse, Wrestling Palace named after Ushkenpilov, Arau Ice Palace, Kazakhstan Athletic Sports Complex and Duman Complex.
Cultural Program
While the World Nomad Games is indeed a sporting event, organizers stress that unlike the Olympic Games, which focus on competition, the Nomad Games will also focus on celebrating tradition and cultural heritage.
Ethnic groups from about 90 countries are participating, making it an event that truly brings together nomads from all over the world.
The Ethnoile (Ethnic Village) will open on September 7, the day before the main event begins. The opening will feature a lively theatrical performance titled “Astana: Capital of Nomads”.
The day after the Nomad Games, a cultural program will be held in the 10-hectare Ethnic Village adjacent to the Kazanat Racecourse, with daily concerts, exhibitions of ethnic crafts and an oriental market.
Each day of Ethnoiyil begins with the Shatykh Keryeni (Caravan of Joy) parade, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage and traditions of the Kazakh people. From noon to 5pm, the Dumandi Dara (Steps of Joy) concert will feature top regional groups from across the country, including ethno-folk ensembles, the Kazakh National Orchestra, soloists and dance groups, performing in traditional folk style.
Don’t miss Atiz, a thrilling music and poetry competition where the country’s top improvisation artists showcase their talents with strings and words, held daily at 2pm.
Later in the evening, renowned Kazakh pop artists and international groups, including the legendary Arkaim Instrumental Duet, the Birlik Song and Dance Ensemble and the Khazar Folk Band, will perform under the stars.
All concerts on the Main Stage are open to the public.
Markets and bazaars have long been places where neighbouring communities come together, and the festival revives this tradition at Shigis Bazaar (Oriental Bazaar), where you can savor authentic Kazakh cuisine while sampling dishes from famous Kazakh restaurants. Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in traditional treats and delicacies and savor the rich flavors of Kazakhstan.
Sheberlar Auli (Artisans’ Village) is another beauty trail that can be discovered in the Ethno Village. More than 200 artisans from all over the country will present their unique products and reveal the secrets of their craft. The public will have the opportunity to purchase a wide range of souvenirs and attend master classes in jewelry making, leather working and ceramic carving.