What is Naadam?
Picture this: Vast, sun-drenched Mongolian steppes buzzing with excitement, the air filled with cheers, the thunder of hooves, and the deep concentration of ancient sports. Welcome to Naadam (Наадам), Mongolia's most spectacular and beloved festival! Far more than just competitions, Naadam is a vibrant, living tapestry of culture, history, and national pride.
So, what exactly is Naadam? At its heart, it's the thrilling celebration of "Eriin Gurvan Naadam" (эрийн гурван наадам), which translates to "The Three Games of Men." These three traditional sports form the festival's core:
Bökh (Монгол бөх)
Mongolian Wrestling: Witness incredible displays of strength, technique, and ritual. Wrestlers, clad in distinctive jackets (zodog) and tiny shorts (shuudag), perform the majestic "Eagle Dance" before each bout, aiming to force any part of their opponent's body above the knee to touch the ground. It's a mesmerizing blend of power and pageantry.
Moriin Ulaan (Морины уралдаан)
Horse Racing: Forget short sprints! Naadam horse races are endurance tests covering vast distances (15-30 km), showcasing the legendary stamina of Mongolian horses. The most captivating part? The jockeys are children, often aged 5-13! Their skill and courage, guiding their mounts across the open plains, is truly awe-inspiring.
Sur Kharvaa (Сум харваа)
Horse Racing: Forget short sprints! Naadam horse races are endurance tests covering vast distances (15-30 km), showcasing the legendary stamina of Mongolian horses. The most captivating part? The jockeys are children, often aged 5-13! Their skill and courage, guiding their mounts across the open plains, is truly awe-inspiring.
A Festival for Everyone
While historically called the "Three Games of Men," Naadam is truly a festival for the whole nation. Women are now fierce competitors in archery, showcasing incredible skill. Girls also participate prominently as jockeys in the demanding horse races. Mongolian wrestling remains the only discipline currently exclusive to men. The festival erupts across Mongolia, Inner Mongolia, and Tuva every summer, usually peaking around July 11th-13th for Mongolia's National Day celebrations.
A Heritage Treasure
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More Than Just Competition
Attending Naadam is an immersion into Mongolian soul. It's the colorful traditional costumes (deels), the lively atmosphere, the shared meals, the folk music, and the deep sense of community. It's a joyous celebration of nomadic heritage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Mongolian people.
Don’t Miss the Magic of Naadam
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the thrill of Naadam, now’s your chance—no passport required! Each year in July the Calgary Mongolian Community Association (CMCA) brings Mongolia’s most iconic festival to Alberta, offering a vibrant celebration of culture, sport, and tradition.
Every Year We Bring
This free, family-friendly event on July CMCA is your ticket to:
- Witness the "Three Manly Games" (Eriin Gurvan Naadam)—wrestling, horse racing (simulated for the local setting), and archery.
- Immerse yourself in Mongolian music, dance, and traditional costumes (deels).
- Taste authentic flavors with Mongolian food and drinks.
- Connect with community and celebrate the rich heritage of Mongolia right here in Canada.
Mark Your Calendar
This year our yearly Naadam Festival plan to commence on July 11, 2026. The details will be available soon.
📍 Location
Location will be announced soon.
📅 Date: July 11, 2026
🎟️ Admission: (Registration detail will follow soon)
Whether you're curious about Mongolian culture or simply looking for a unique summer experience, The Naadam Festival promises an unforgettable day of excitement and tradition of nomadic culture. Mark your calendar and join the celebration!
