Naadam Festival Celebrates 35th Year in Inner Mongolia

The 35th Naadam Festival commenced on July 19 in Xilin Gol League, marking a significant celebration of the lush summer grasslands and thriving livestock of Inner Mongolia. This long-standing event highlights the region's rich nomadic culture, drawing attention from both locals and tourists.

The term "Naadam" translates to "entertainment and games" in Mongolian, embodying the festival's spirit. With a vibrant display of activities including horse racing, wrestling, archery, music, and dance, Naadam has been recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage item since 2006, growing into a notable cultural and tourism attraction.

This year's festival promises a unique experience, fusing tradition with modern entertainment. Attendees can navigate through 18 themed zones that not only showcase various Mongolian sports but also heritage crafts and picturesque grassland scenery, making it a family-friendly destination.

To enhance the visitor experience, the festival has provided free shuttle buses and enlisted the support of 300 volunteers, alongside all-day cultural performances. This ensures that guests can enjoy an engaging and seamless experience throughout the event.

Welcoming tourists, the Naadam Festival is distributing free "care kits" that include sun protection and travel guides to assist attendees. Additionally, over 1 million yuan, equivalent to more than 139,000 dollars, in food vouchers are being shared via the Chinese version of TikTok to promote local culinary delights.

Further incentivizing attendance, iconic scenic spots throughout Xilin Gol League are offering half-price admissions from July 18 to 21, making it easier for visitors to explore the area's cultural treasures during this festive time.