Overview
The Fifth World Nomad Games, which will take place in Kazakhstan in September 2024, are international sports competitions featuring ethnic sports. The competitions are based on folk games traditionally played by the nomadic peoples of Central Asia. The World Nomad Games aim to promote the development of ethno-sports and the ethno-cultural movement as a heritage of human civilization.
Speaking earlier this year, the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, stated: “The World Nomad Games in Kazakhstan will be a major event. They are important both for the popularization of national sports and a healthy lifestyle, and for the expansion of cultural and humanitarian ties between fraternal peoples – heirs of the nomadic civilization of the Great Steppe.”
This factsheet provides an overview of the Fifth World Nomad Games. It includes details on the event, games, and its cultural significance. Additionally, the factsheet outlines the history and background of the World Nomad Games and the nomadic culture.
Fifth World Nomad Games in Kazakhstan
Key information
• Date: September 8-13, 2024.
• Location: Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.
• Motto: The 5th World Nomad Games will be held under the motto “The Gathering of the Great Steppe.”
• Games: Competitions in 21 sports will be held at the premier sports venues in Astana. These events include horse races, national wrestling styles, traditional intellectual games, martial arts competitions, traditional archery, national bird hunting, folk games, and exhibition performances in ethnic sports. A total of 97 sets of medals will be awarded at the Games.
• Organizers: Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan, UNESCO, Organization of Turkic States, World Ethnosport, Ulttyq Sport, and the Astana administration.
• Opening and closing ceremonies: The opening ceremony will be held at the “Astana Arena” stadium, and the closing ceremony will be at the “Kazanat” hippodrome.
Why is Kazakhstan Hosting the World Nomad Games?
Kazakhstan is hosting the Fifth World Nomad Games to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of nomadic peoples. The country’s vast steppe lands and historical ties to nomadic traditions make it an ideal location for this event. Kazakhstan aims to promote its cultural identity and strengthen international bonds through the hosting of these games.
Participants and Visitors
The games will feature over 2500 participants from just around 100 countries. Nations with significant nomadic histories, as well as those interested in the cultural exchange, are expected to join.
It is expected that over 100,000 domestic and foreign tourists will attend the sporting and cultural events at the Nomad Games.
Description of Several Sports and Cultural Activities
Twenty-one kinds of sports will be on display at the World Nomad Games in Astana, including horse racing, national wrestling, traditional intellectual games, martial arts competitions, traditional archery, national bird hunting, horse competitions, folk games, as well as demonstrations of ethnic sports. Below is a description of some of them.
Traditional Sports
1. Kok-Boru (Goat Polo): A traditional horseback sport where teams compete to place a goat carcass into the opponent’s goal. It is known for its physicality and skill.
2. Traditional Wrestling (Kuresh): A form of wrestling practiced by nomadic peoples, focusing on strength and technique.
3. Horse Racing: Races that test the speed and endurance of horses, a central aspect of nomadic life.
4. Archery: Competitions involving traditional bow and arrow, showcasing the precision and skill of participants.
5. Eagle Hunting: A demonstration of hunting with trained eagles, highlighting the deep bond between hunter and bird.
Cultural Experiences
Daily cultural events will be held at the unique “Ethnoaul,” where the past will meet the present in a harmonious display of tradition. Here, visitors will be able to marvel at the largest exhibition-fair of Kazakh craftsmanship, where master artisans will display their works and share the secrets of their craft through engaging master classes.
1. History and culture: History of the nomadic traditions and spiritual wealth of the Turkic world.
2. Folk Music and Dance: Performances of traditional music and dance, reflecting the cultural heritage of nomadic peoples.
3. Craft Workshops: Interactive sessions where visitors can learn about traditional crafts such as felt-making, embroidery, and metalwork.
4. Cuisine Tasting: Opportunities to taste traditional nomadic foods, such as kumis (fermented mare’s milk) and beshbarmak (a meat and dough dish).
Background to the World Nomad Games
History of the Games
The World Nomad Games were established to celebrate the traditional sports and cultural heritage of nomadic peoples around the world. The first games were held in 2014 in Cholpon-Ata, the Kyrgyz Republic, and have since become a prominent event held every two years.
Previous Locations and Highlights
1. 2014 – Kyrgyz Republic (Cholpon-Ata): The inaugural games featured 583 athletes from 19 countries, who participated in 10 sports. The Kyrgyz Republic emerged as the overall winner.
2. 2016 – Kyrgyz Republic (Cholpon-Ata): Expanded participation to 62 countries and 1,200 athletes, with 26 sports overall, including kok-boru (goat polo), and traditional wrestling.
3. 2018 – Kyrgyz Republic (Cholpon-Ata): Hosted 2,000 athletes from 82 countries, as well as 37 sports, continuing to build on the success of previous games.
4. 2022 – Türkiye (Iznik): Marked the first time the games were held outside of the Kyrgyz Republic, attracting around 3,000 athletes from 102 countries and emphasizing the global appeal of nomadic cultures.
Cultural Significance of the World Nomad Games
Importance to Kazakhstan and the Region
The World Nomad Games are a vital cultural event for Kazakhstan and the broader Central Asian region. They serve as a platform to celebrate and preserve the traditional practices, sports, and way of life of nomadic peoples. For Kazakhstan, hosting the games is an opportunity to showcase its cultural heritage and promote national pride.
Background to Nomadic Cultures and Traditions Featured in the Games
1. Yurts: Portable, round tents covered with skins or felt, used as dwellings by nomadic peoples. They are designed for easy assembly and disassembly.
2. Kumis: A traditional fermented drink made from mare’s milk, considered a staple in many nomadic diets.
3. Beshbarmak: The national dish of Kazakhstan, consisting of boiled meat and dough, often served at significant cultural events.
4. Eagle Hunting: A centuries-old tradition where trained eagles are used to hunt game, particularly in Mongolia and Kazakhstan. This practice requires extensive training and a deep bond between the hunter and the eagle.
5. Felt Making: An ancient craft involving the creation of felt from wool, used for clothing, rugs, and yurt coverings. It is a vital skill in nomadic cultures.
6. Nomadic Horse Culture: Horses are central to nomadic life, used for transportation, hunting, and sports. The bond between nomads and their horses is deeply rooted in their way of life.
7. Epic Poetry: Oral storytelling and epic poetry are integral to preserving the history and culture of nomadic peoples. These stories are passed down through generations and often recited during cultural gatherings.
8. Traditional Attire: Clothing made from natural materials like wool and leather, often adorned with intricate embroidery and designs that reflect cultural identity and status.
Why the World Nomad Games Should Matter to Countries and Regions Outside of Central Asia
1. Cultural Diversity and Heritage: The World Nomad Games are a celebration of global cultural diversity. They provide a unique opportunity to witness and appreciate the rich traditions and heritage of nomadic peoples from around the world. This fosters greater understanding and respect for different cultures, which is essential in our increasingly interconnected world.
2. Preservation of Ancient Traditions: The games play a crucial role in preserving ancient sports and cultural practices that might otherwise be lost. By supporting and participating in the World Nomad Games, countries can contribute to the safeguarding of global intangible cultural heritage.
3. Global Unity and Collaboration: The games bring together participants from over 100 countries, promoting international friendship and cooperation. This spirit of unity is important for addressing global challenges and fostering peaceful relations between nations.
4. Educational Value: The World Nomad Games provide firsthand exposure to historical traditions, social structures, and the lifestyle of nomadic cultures, enriching educational curricula around the world.
5. Tourism and Economic Opportunities: The games attract visitors from across the globe, boosting tourism and providing economic benefits to host countries. This influx of tourists can lead to increased investment and development in regions that host the games, benefiting local communities.
Why People Outside Central Asia Should Visit the Fifth World Nomad Games
1. Unique Cultural Experience: The Fifth World Nomad Games offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant and diverse cultures of nomadic peoples. Witnessing traditional sports, arts, and ceremonies firsthand is an enriching experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
2. Adventure and Exploration: Kazakhstan’s stunning landscapes, from the majestic mountains to the vast steppes, provide a breathtaking backdrop for the games. Visitors can combine their attendance with adventure tourism, exploring the natural beauty and historical sites of the region.
3. Interactive Learning: Visitors can engage in workshops, try their hand at traditional crafts, and taste authentic nomadic cuisine, making it a hands-on learning experience.
4. Cultural Exchange and Networking: Attending the games provides a unique platform for cultural exchange and networking. Meet people from different backgrounds, share experiences, and build connections that can last a lifetime.
5. Witness Rare Sports and Traditions: Many of the sports and traditions showcased at the World Nomad Games, such as kok-boru, eagle hunting, and yurt building, are rarely seen outside of their native regions. This is a rare chance to see these fascinating practices up close.
6. Support Cultural Preservation: By attending the games, you are supporting the preservation and continuation of ancient traditions. Your participation helps ensure that these cultural practices are passed down to future generations.
7. Memorable Travel Experience: The combination of cultural richness, natural beauty, and the unique atmosphere of the World Nomad Games makes for a truly unforgettable travel experience.
