Naadam, meaning “entertainment” or “gathering” in Mongolian, is the grandest traditional mass celebration of the Mongolian people and has a history of nearly 800 years.
In 2006, Naadam was included in the first batch of China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
As Mongolian communities have spread around the world, Naadam has become a cultural festival celebrated in many international cities — from London Naadam 2026 on Wimbledon Common in the United Kingdom, to the large-scale celebration at Busse Woods in Chicago drawing more than 3,000 participants; from a traditional gathering in Arlington, Virginia, in the Washington, D.C. area attended by more than 2,000 people, to the New Jersey Kalmyk community’s Naadam marking the 75th anniversary of their arrival in the United States.
Across these celebrations, communities come together through wrestling, archery, horse racing, morin khuur performances, Mongolian cuisine, and other traditions.
In 2026, the core Naadam season runs from July through August, with celebrations held around the world from early July through mid-August.
Event Schedule and Venues
### Core Naadam Dates
Naadam is held each year from July through September, with exact dates varying by region.
The Xilinhot Grassland Naadam is generally held in mid-to-late July and lasts three days.
The Damao United Banner Naadam runs from late July through early September, covering the entire summer holiday period.
The Baarin Right Banner Intangible Heritage Naadam is held in mid-August.
The core schedule is as follows:
| Venue | Time | Core Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Xilinhot | Mid-to-late July | 36th Grassland Naadam — opening ceremony, traditional “Three Manly Games” competitions, four visitor competitions, food market, intangible heritage fair, and “Naadam Every Day” |
| Damao United Banner | Late July to early September | 36th Naadam — opening ceremony, horse-racing “Village Super League” open competition, elite Bökh wrestling, concerts, grassland football invitational, Mongolian clothing show, intangible heritage square-dance invitational |
| Baarin Right Banner | Mid-August | Inner Mongolia Intangible Heritage Naadam — concentrated display of more than 120 intangible cultural heritage projects from 12 leagues and cities across the region, traditional folk competitions, and Baarin stone culture week |
### Traditional Naadam Customs
Naadam emerged from Mongolian nomadic life and is closely associated with traditional ritual practices such as Ovoo worship.
Its core is the “Three Manly Games” — Bökh wrestling, horse racing, and archery, three traditional skills long regarded as essential abilities of Mongolian men and practiced for centuries.
| Custom | Description |
|---|---|
| Bökh | Mongolian wrestling with no weight divisions and victory determined in a single fall. The sight of 512 wrestlers competing at the same gathering is especially spectacular |
| Horse Racing | Includes long-distance endurance races of around 20 kilometers and shorter speed races; riders are often young people |
| Archery | Uses traditional Mongolian horn bows and is open to both men and women |
| Ovoo Worship | Traditional ritual held before Naadam to pray for favorable weather across the grasslands |
### Major Recommended Activities
Xilinhot — Grassland Naadam:
The Xilinhot Grassland Naadam follows a theme of “tradition + contemporary trends,” combining folk experiences, competitive events, tourism, and cultural consumption.
Activities include:
* Opening ceremony, featuring a three-part cultural performance and an aerial Naadam flight display
* Bökh wrestling, with 512 professional wrestlers
* Horse racing, including 20-kilometer endurance and speed races
* Archery, including men’s and women’s Hari target events
* Four visitor competitions: Bökh, archery, shagai games, and Mongolian-deel dressing competition
* Stamp-collecting activities
* Food market
* Intangible heritage exhibition and sales
* “Naadam Every Day”
Venue: Xilingol Naadam Cultural Park.
Damao United Banner — Naadam:
The defining feature of Damao Banner Naadam is that “the public takes center stage.”
Running from late July through early September, it spans the entire summer holiday season.
Activities include:
* Opening ceremony
* Horse-racing “Village Super League” open competition
* Elite Bökh competitions, including:
* 128-wrestler regional elite tournament
* Regional women’s Bökh competition
* Senior wrestling competition
* Darhan Hari target championship
* Archery King competition
* Grass-target championship
* National five-a-side grassland football invitational
* Grassland lamb cooking championship
* “Bailing Cup” amateur singer competition
* China–Mongolia International Naadam
* Mongolian clothing show
* Intangible heritage square-dance invitational
Cultural performances during the festival also include:
* Morin khuur and guzheng concert
* Ulan Muqir special performances
* Qixi concert
Multiple venues operate simultaneously.
In addition to the main venue at Bailing Naadam Cultural Industry Park, branch venues include:
* Taomagou Scenic Area
* Silk Road Dream County Scenic Area
* Hongge’er Ovoo Scenic Area
* Jimustai Scenic Area
* Mandula Town
Baarin Right Banner — Intangible Heritage Naadam:
The Baarin Right Banner Intangible Heritage Naadam pioneered a new format by deeply integrating intangible cultural heritage with traditional Naadam.
More than 120 representative intangible cultural heritage projects from all 12 leagues and cities of Inner Mongolia are presented together, including:
* Traditional incense making
* Mongolian gold-and-silver inlay
* Ewenki fur craftsmanship
* Bark painting
* Naiman printmaking
* Horqin horse tack
* Fermented mare’s milk production
* Chagan Ide dairy foods
* Felt embroidery
* Leather carving
* Carpet weaving
* Horsehair thangka
Traditional competitions include:
* Bökh
* Horse racing
* Archery
* Bulu
* Chess
* Pariji team competition
Approximately 165,000 people attended the opening ceremony.
The entire event is open to the public free of charge, with no ticket required.
Pre-Trip Preparation
### Visas and Entry
Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, where these Naadam celebrations are held, follows China’s unified visa policies:
* 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit for Citizens of 54 Countries: Travelers may enjoy up to 240 hours of visa-free transit, with permitted stay areas covering Inner Mongolia and other administrative regions.
* Tour Groups from ASEAN Countries: Groups organized through travel agencies may enter visa-free through designated ports.
* Other Nationalities: Apply in advance for a tourist visa, or L visa, through the relevant Chinese embassy or consulate and ensure that your passport remains valid for more than six months.
* Latest Policies: Before departure, consult the official website of China’s National Immigration Administration or the relevant embassy or consulate.
### Adapting to the Climate
The Inner Mongolian grasslands in July and August have the following climate characteristics:
* Temperature: Around 25°C during the day, while nighttime temperatures can fall below 15°C, creating a very large day-night temperature difference.
* Sunlight: Grassland ultraviolet exposure is extremely strong, making sun protection essential every day.
* Rainfall: July and August are the rainy season, with occasional showers. Carrying rain gear is recommended.
* Clothing: Use a layered system — short sleeves or a light long-sleeved top during the day, with a shell jacket or light down jacket for mornings and evenings.
Nighttime temperatures may fall below 10°C, so warm clothing is essential.
Shoes should be comfortable and breathable athletic shoes.
Festival grounds are mainly grass, and high heels are prohibited.
### Travel Insurance
It is strongly recommended to purchase travel insurance covering:
* Accidental injury and acute illness treatment, including outpatient care
* Loss of or damage to personal belongings
* Travel delays or cancellations
### Currency and Payment
* Currency: Renminbi (CNY).
* Cash: Carry a reasonable amount of cash. Network signals in pastoral grassland areas may be weak, making cash transactions more reliable.
* Cards: Visa and MasterCard may be used in larger hotels and supermarkets in league-, city-, banner-, and county-level urban areas; they are generally not accepted in smaller towns.
* Mobile Payment: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in urban areas across Inner Mongolia.
### Communications and Internet
* Important: Mobile signals can be weak in some grassland areas.
* It is strongly recommended to download offline maps in advance. Use Baidu Maps or AutoNavi and download maps of your Naadam destination in Inner Mongolia while connected to Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
### Core Venue 1: Xilinhot
| Transportation | Details |
|---|---|
| Air | Xilinhot Airport serves Beijing, Hohhot, and other major domestic cities. July is peak tourism season, so booking flights one month in advance is recommended |
| Train | Xilinhot Station has services to and from Hohhot, Beijing, and other cities |
| Driving | Danxi Expressway, G16, provides direct access to Xilinhot. Traffic controls apply around festival venues, so park according to official guidance |
Venue:
Xilingol Naadam Cultural Park, on G207 National Highway in the southern suburbs of Xilinhot, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center.
### Core Venue 2: Darhan Muminggan United Banner
| Transportation | Details |
|---|---|
| Air | Fly first to Hohhot Baita Airport, then continue by road to Damao Banner, approximately 3–4 hours |
| Train | Travel by train to Baotou Station, then continue by road to Damao Banner |
| Driving | Drive from Hohhot or Baotou along national highways |
Main Venue:
Bailing Naadam Cultural Industry Park.
### Transportation Tips During the Festival
* Xilinhot Main Venue: Crowds are extremely large on opening day. Leave early, and whenever possible use carpooling or public transportation.
* Damao Banner: The celebration runs throughout the summer, allowing greater flexibility when planning travel.
* Parking: Designated parking areas are provided around each venue. Follow official directions and park in an orderly manner.
Accommodation Reservations
| Key Point | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| When to Book | July and August are peak tourism season in Inner Mongolia, and accommodation becomes extremely scarce during Naadam. Book hotels more than one month in advance |
| Xilinhot | Xilinhot urban area — broad hotel selection; near Naadam Cultural Park — closer to the venue but limited supply |
| Damao Banner | Bailingmiao Town — seat of the banner government; areas near Bailing Naadam Cultural Industry Park |
| Baarin Right Banner | Daban Town — seat of the banner government; areas around the Mastala venue |
| Special Experience | Staying in a grassland ger offers an opportunity to experience nomadic life, though facilities are relatively basic and personal toiletries should be brought |
| Price Reference | Prices rise during peak season: budget around RMB 200–400 per night, mid-range RMB 400–800, high-end accommodation above RMB 800 |
| Booking Platforms | Major platforms such as Ctrip, Qunar, and Meituan; rooms with free cancellation are preferable |
Pre-Trip Packing Checklist
| Category | Essential Items | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Short-sleeved T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, shell jacket / light down jacket, warm trousers | Day-night temperature differences are extreme and nighttime temperatures may fall below 10°C. Layering is essential |
| Shoes | Comfortable, breathable athletic shoes / hiking shoes | Festival grounds are mainly grass. High heels are prohibited |
| Sun Protection | SPF50+ sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, sun-protective face covering | Grassland UV exposure is extremely strong |
| Protection | Face mask for dusty race areas; insect repellent | Grassland insects can be numerous |
| Rain Gear | Folding umbrella or lightweight raincoat | July and August are the rainy season and showers are frequent |
| Medicine | Cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, adhesive bandages, motion-sickness medicine | Useful for climate changes and dietary differences |
| Electronics | Power bank, phone, camera | Charging facilities at activity venues may be limited |
| Storage | Small bag / waist pouch for documents and cash | Protect belongings in crowded areas |
| Other | Tissues / wet wipes, insulated bottle, flashlight / headlamp | Lighting on the grasslands can be limited at night |
Cultural Respect
### Respect for Ethnic Beliefs and Ritual Etiquette
Naadam originated in Mongolian nomadic life and is closely connected with traditional rituals such as Ovoo worship.
* Ovoo Worship: If you encounter an Ovoo worship ceremony, remain quiet and solemn. Do not shout or play around. You may walk around the Ovoo three times clockwise to pray for blessings, but do not climb it or touch prayer flags and offerings.
* Ger Etiquette: When entering a ger, do not step on the threshold. In Mongolian custom, the threshold symbolizes the family’s fortune, and stepping on it is considered disrespectful. Sit where the host directs and do not sit in the northwest corner, which is usually reserved for Buddhist worship.
* Photography Restrictions: Some parts of ritual ceremonies may prohibit photography. Confirm with on-site personnel in advance.
### Etiquette When Participating in Activities
* Spectator Etiquette: Watch Bökh wrestling, horse racing, and archery from designated areas and do not enter competition grounds.
* Visitor Experiences: Naadam includes visitor participation activities, such as Bökh, archery, shagai games, and Mongolian-deel dressing competitions. Visitors can register on site.
* Respect Competitors: Wrestlers, riders, and archers are often local herders and students. Show them respect and applause.
### Photography Etiquette
* Ask Permission: Before photographing local people in Mongolian clothing, wrestlers, riders, elderly people, or children, smile and ask first.
* Respect Portrait Rights: Do not use photographs of other people commercially without permission.
* Drone Regulations: Flying drones over Naadam venues requires advance registration with local public-security authorities.
### Safety Guidelines
* Crowd Safety: Opening ceremonies and major activities attract dense crowds. Stay alert and supervise elderly family members and children.
* Property Safety: Store valuables in the hotel safe and carry only essentials.
* Sun Protection and Hydration: Grassland sunlight is intense. Use sun protection and drink enough water.
* Food Hygiene: Grassland cuisine centers on beef, mutton, and dairy products. Those with sensitive stomachs may bring their own gastrointestinal medicine.
* Child Supervision: Grassland areas are vast. Do not allow children to wander away from the venue alone.
Emergency Information
| Item | Contact / Description |
|---|---|
| Emergency Numbers | Police 110, Fire 119, Ambulance 120 |
| Major Hospitals | Xilingol League Central Hospital in Xilinhot, Damao Banner Hospital, Baarin Right Banner Hospital |
| Tourist Police / Lost Property | Permanent police posts and medical first-aid points are available at all major venues. Report lost valuables immediately to the nearest police office |
| Tourist Information | Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Department of Culture and Tourism and official cultural-tourism platforms of each league and city |
| Time Zone | UTC+8, China Standard Time |
| Voltage / Plugs | 220V; plug types A / C / I |
Special Reminders
* Multiple Naadam Celebrations, Different Dates: Inner Mongolia hosts multiple Naadam events — Xilinhot in mid-to-late July, Damao Banner from late July through early September, Baarin Right Banner in mid-August, and others. Confirm the exact date and location of your chosen venue before departure.
* Free Admission: Both the Xilinhot Grassland Naadam and the Baarin Right Banner Intangible Heritage Naadam are open to the public free of charge, with no ticket required.
* Extreme Day-Night Temperature Difference: Grassland temperatures may exceed 30°C during the day and fall below 10°C at night — warm clothing is essential.
* Book Early: Accommodation is extremely limited during Naadam. Reserve hotels in advance.
* Sun Protection Is Essential: Grassland ultraviolet exposure is very strong. Sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses are indispensable.
* Offline Maps: Mobile signals can be weak in some grassland areas. Download offline maps before departure.
* Weather Awareness: July and August are the rainy season. Check forecasts before departure and carry rain gear.
*May you experience the distinctive charm of a thousand years of Mongolian Naadam on the vast grasslands and, amid the cries of Bökh wrestlers, the neighing of racehorses, and the twang of bowstrings, receive the beautiful blessing of “grassland reunion, good fortune, and fulfillment.”*
Cultural Background:
Naadam means “games” or “entertainment” in Mongolian and is one of the Mongolian people’s oldest traditional festivals.
Naadam originated in the ritual and military-training activities of ancient Mongols. At its heart are the “Three Manly Games” — wrestling, horse racing, and archery, through which strength, speed, and skill are displayed.
Naadam customs are rich and varied:
* Mongolian Wrestling (Bökh): The central competitive event of Naadam, with no weight divisions. Wrestlers wear the traditional zodog and compete in tests of strength and technique on the grasslands.
* Horse Racing: Expresses the special bond between Mongolian people and horses, including both speed and endurance races.
* Archery: Traditional bow-and-arrow competition open to both men and women.
* Morin Khuur Performance and Long Song: Among the most representative musical traditions of Mongolian culture.
* Ger Cultural Experience: Visitors can sample grassland foods such as hand-held mutton, milk tea, and whole roasted lamb.
* Traditional Games: Include Shagai Kharvaa, or ankle-bone shooting, as well as ankle-bone horse racing.
As Mongolian communities have established themselves around the world, Naadam has become an important platform for strengthening cultural identity among the global Mongolian diaspora.
In 2026, large-scale Naadam celebrations were held in the United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland, and other countries.
Major Celebration Cities Worldwide:
| Country / Region | Core City | Event | Date | Scale / Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | London | London Naadam 2026 | July 5 | 32 traditional wrestlers, Mongolian deel beauty contest, simulated children’s horse race |
| United States | Chicago | Busse Woods Naadam | July 11 | Expected attendance of 3,000+, largest Naadam in the United States |
| United States | Washington, D.C. area | Washington Naadam | July 11 | More than 2,000 participants, 32 elite wrestlers |
| United States | New Jersey | Kalmyk Naadam | August 15 | Marks the 75th anniversary of Kalmyk arrival in the United States |
| Switzerland | Geneva | Mongolian Naadam 2026 | July 4 and 11 | Two events, with 900+ and 800+ participants respectively |
| Czech Republic | Prague | Mongolian Culture Day and World Horse Day | July 11 | Held at Prague Zoo, combining Mongolian culture with Przewalski’s horse conservation |
| Canada | Ottawa / Niagara | Mongolian Flag Landmark Illuminations | July 11 | Ottawa landmark and Niagara Falls illuminated in red-blue-red colors |
Recommended Activities by Region:
### London, United Kingdom
To celebrate the 2,235th anniversary of the founding of Mongolia, the 820th anniversary of the establishment of the Great Mongol Empire, the 115th anniversary of the restoration of national independence, and the 105th anniversary of the People’s Revolution, Mongolian communities in the United Kingdom held London Naadam 2026 on July 5 at Wimbledon Common.
Opening Ceremony:
Mongolia’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, B. Mönkhjin, delivered remarks.
The Mongolian national flag then entered the grounds in solemn procession, escorted by an honor guard made up of representatives from Mongolian organizations, associations, and clubs across the United Kingdom, formally opening the celebration.
Cultural Performances:
The program featured:
* Morin khuur performance
* Mongolian long song
* Biyelgee dance
* Tsam dance
Comedian Tuge and artist Davaaidash were also invited to perform.
Traditional Wrestling Competition:
A total of 32 wrestlers competed.
County-level wrestling champion B. Batbilig from Bayan County in Töv Province won the title for the third time and received the rotating trophy.
County-level champion Ts. Basantseren from Baganuur County in Töv Province took second place for the first time.
Interactive Activities:
* Simulated children’s horse-racing experience, a popular family activity
* Mongolian traditional clothing, or deel, beauty competition
* Traditional ankle-bone shooting competition (Shagai Kharvaa)
* Tug-of-war and lucky draw
London Naadam 2026 was produced and directed by Mongolian Honored Cultural Worker M. Mönkhzorig.
Transportation:
Wimbledon Common is located in southwest London and can be reached via Wimbledon Station on the District line.
### Chicago, United States
Chicago’s Mongolian community has held Naadam annually since 2000.
The 2026 celebration took place at Busse Woods and was expected to attract more than 3,000 people, making it the largest Naadam celebration in the United States.
The event was jointly organized by Mongolian community nonprofit organizations and the Consulate General of Mongolia in Chicago.
Its core program centered on the three traditional competitions:
* Wrestling
* Archery
* Horse racing
Transportation:
Busse Woods is located in Chicago’s northwestern suburbs. Driving is recommended, and parking is available at the event site.
### Washington, D.C. Area, United States
Mongolian nationals studying, working, and living in the Washington, D.C. area held a traditional Naadam celebration on July 11 in Arlington, Virginia.
Guests:
Mongolia’s Ambassador to the United States, E. Battbayar, officially opened the event.
Maria Sand, Acting Deputy Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Japanese, Korean, and Mongolian Affairs, attended by invitation and delivered remarks.
Flag-Raising Ceremony:
The ceremony was presided over by Colonel D. Gankhuyag, Defense Attaché at the Embassy of Mongolia in the United States.
Colonel J. Enkhbold and Colonel M. Tuvshinjargal jointly raised the Mongolian national flag.
Traditional Wrestling Competition:
A total of 32 accomplished wrestlers holding national-, provincial-, and county-level titles competed in Mongolian wrestling.
Other Activities:
* Shagai shooting
* Archery
* Children’s races
* Shagai horse racing
The event was supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia and jointly organized by the Embassy of Mongolia in the United States, Mongolian associations in the Washington, D.C. area, and other nongovernmental organizations.
It attracted more than 2,000 participants from Mongolia and other countries.
### New Jersey, United States
The Kalmyk American Cultural and Arts Foundation will hold a Naadam festival at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, at Cruise Golf Club in Farmingdale, New Jersey.
Special Significance:
The year marks the 75th anniversary of the Kalmyk community’s arrival in the United States, making this Naadam an important commemorative event.
The celebration gives Kalmyk families — especially younger generations — an opportunity to experience tradition directly and plays an important role in preserving the Kalmyk language, customs, and cultural continuity.
Naadam is one of the most important cultural activities among Mongolic-speaking peoples, including the Kalmyks, and traditionally features the “Three Manly Games” — wrestling, archery, and horse racing.
Address:
Cruise Golf Club
55 Birdsall Road, Farmingdale, NJ 07727.
### Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva hosted two consecutive Naadam celebrations in July 2026.
First Event — July 4:
Mongolian Naadam 2026 in Geneva was jointly organized by the Helvétique & Khunnu Association, the Embassy of Mongolia in Switzerland, and other organizations.
More than 900 people attended.
Activities included:
* Mongolian wrestling with 32 competitors
* Ankle-bone shooting
* Traditional ankle-bone games
* Children’s drawing competition
* Children’s races
Second Event — July 11:
Organized by Bolor Cargo, GM Star Sports Club, and other groups.
Activities included:
* Traditional wrestling with 32 competitors
* Ankle-bone shooting
* Children’s races
* Morin khuur performance
* Mongolian folk songs
* Traditional dance performances
More than 800 Mongolians and international friends participated.
Transportation:
Geneva’s Naadam venues are generally located within the urban area and can be reached by public transportation.
### Prague, Czech Republic
On July 11, Prague Zoo hosted Mongolian Culture Day and World Horse Day, an event inspired by Naadam that combined Mongolian traditional culture with the conservation of Przewalski’s horse.
Activities:
* Traditional Mongolian cultural displays
* Entering a ger to experience nomadic life
* Mongolian foods including buuz, steamed dumplings, and khuushuur, fried meat pastries
* Guided introductions to Przewalski’s horses
* Event hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Special Significance:
Since 2011, Prague Zoo has worked to return Przewalski’s horses to Mongolia.
The population of Przewalski’s horses in Mongolia has now increased to approximately 800.
Mongolian Culture Day has become an important symbol of cultural cooperation between the Czech Republic and Mongolia.
Transportation:
Prague Zoo is located in northern Prague and can be reached by public bus or dedicated zoo services.
Pre-Trip Packing Checklist:
| Category | Recommended Items | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Prepare for local weather — July is summer in most locations, so light clothing and sun protection are needed; mornings and evenings may be cooler, so bring a light jacket | Outdoor activities can last for long periods |
| Shoes | Comfortable non-slip athletic shoes | Grassland and park venues may require long periods of standing |
| Sun Protection | Sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses | Outdoor sunlight can be intense |
| Camera / Phone | For photographing wrestling, morin khuur performances, and traditional clothing | Bring a power bank |
| Cash | Small amount of local currency | Food stalls may not accept cards |
| Translation App | Google Translate or similar | Useful for communicating with Mongolian community members |
Participation Etiquette:
### General Naadam Etiquette
* Festival Greetings: You can say “Happy Naadam” or “Сайн байна уу?”, meaning “Hello” in Mongolian.
* Spectator Etiquette: When watching wrestling, horse racing, or archery, remain in designated viewing areas and do not enter the competition grounds.
* Ger Etiquette: When entering a ger, do not step on the threshold. Sit according to the host’s guidance.
* Clothing Suggestion: Wearing red, blue, or other traditional auspicious Mongolian colors is appropriate.
### Photography Etiquette
* Ask Permission: Before photographing competitors, performers, or elderly participants in Mongolian deels, smile and ask first.
* Respect Portrait Rights: Do not use photographs of other people commercially without permission.
* Drone Regulations: Drone flights over festival venues require advance registration with the relevant local authorities.
Travel Tips:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Participate | July through August is the core Naadam season each year |
| Plan Ahead | Major events in Chicago, London, Washington, and elsewhere attract large crowds; plan itineraries in advance |
| Transportation | Roads around event venues are often busy; leave early |
| Weather Awareness | July can be hot in many locations; check local forecasts and pay attention to sun protection and hydration |
| Follow Organizers | Event information can often be obtained through Mongolian embassies and consulates or local Mongolian associations |
Special Reminders:
* Naadam Is a Global Festival: You do not need to travel to Mongolia or Inner Mongolia in China to experience its atmosphere. Naadam celebrations are held in major cities including London, Chicago, Washington, Geneva, and Prague.
* Chicago Hosts the Largest Naadam in the United States: The Busse Woods Naadam in Chicago is the country’s largest, with more than 3,000 participants expected.
* Official Support in Washington: The Washington Naadam is jointly organized with the Embassy of Mongolia in the United States and attended by a U.S. Department of State official.
* New Jersey Kalmyk Naadam: The 2026 celebration marks the 75th anniversary of Kalmyk arrival in the United States and carries special historical commemorative significance.
* Prague Offers a Distinctive Fusion: Prague Zoo combines Mongolian culture with Przewalski’s horse conservation, creating a unique experience.
* Dates Vary by Location: Naadam events are generally held in July, but exact dates differ by city. Check local official schedules in advance.
* Canadian Light Displays: On July 11, landmarks in Ottawa and Niagara Falls will be illuminated in the colors of the Mongolian flag. Although there is no physical festival gathering, the display is highly distinctive.
*May you experience the distinctive charm of Naadam in different corners of the world and, amid the cries of wrestling and the resonant melodies of the morin khuur, receive the beautiful blessing of “grassland reunion, good fortune, and fulfillment.”*
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