NAADAM

This national holiday is the most important of Mongolia. It celebrates the independence of the country from China, taken in 1924 following the Mongolian Revolution of 1921. The festival would have been established under Chinggis Khan, in 1207, and re-established in the XX^e century. It is first celebrated from July 11 to 13, in Ulaanbaatar, where the most important festivities are held, then many local festivals are organized in many aimags and sum the weeks that follow.
Naadam is composed of three traditional Mongolian sports: horse racing, archery and wrestling. Called "Eriin Gurvan Naadam", which means "the three virile sports", they have been joined by a fourth competition since 1998: shagai or jacks throwing.
The first day of Naadam opens with a parade of soldiers in military uniform around Chinggis Khan Square. After a tour of the parliament, they go to the stadium where the opening ceremony is held. The opening ceremony includes a second parade of soldiers, monks and athletes, followed by a traditional music and dance performance. The President of the Republic has the opportunity to address the Mongolian people.
In the stadium, wrestling, archery and jacks throwing events are organized. The horse races are held about 50 km from the capital.
The provincial Naadams are smaller, but travelers will be able to enjoy the popular fervor surrounding the games and taste the local specialties.