Naadam Festival, known locally as eriin gurvan naadam dates back centuries and was a way for Mongolians to celebrate community, honour mountain gods, and perform sacrifices.
The competitions’ origins are said to predate Genghis Khan and were a celebration between clans and a showcase for weddings and other important gatherings. It was the glorious leader himself, however, that reportedly presided over the first official Naadam around the 13th century.
Today’s incarnation formally pays homage to Mongolia’s declaration of independence from China on July 11, 1921.
The festival was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.
Though the largest celebration takes place in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, there are smaller competitions throughout the country.