Ethnofestival, Sports, and Culture. The Nomad Games Expand Geography and Plans

Photo 24.kg. World Nomad Games. Archive photo
The VI World Nomad Games promise to be not only a significant sporting event but also a platform for an international cultural program. Participants can expect not only competitions but also a variety of ethnic events. Interest in these Games from other countries is steadily increasing: many states and ethnic groups are approaching the organizers with proposals to add new disciplines and participants. This was announced at a press conference in Bishkek, where the director of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports, Kazybek Moldazhiyev, and the head of the International Secretariat of the World Nomad Games, Nursultan Adenov, spoke.
According to the organizers, more than 3,000 participants are expected to arrive. Accreditation will begin on May 1 and last until July 1, 2026.
“This is the third time we are hosting the World Nomad Games, and we are witnessing a growing interest in the culture of nomadic peoples. The first games had 771 participants, and today their number exceeds 3,000, representing various countries and ethnicities,” said Kazybek Moldazhiyev.

The Games will take place in four picturesque locations:

• the hippodrome in Cholpon-Ata;


• the Gazprom sports and wellness complex in the village of Baktyu-Dolonotu;


• the ethno-complex "Rukh Ordo" in Cholpon-Ata;


• Kyrchyn (Semenov Gorge), where a traditional nomadic environment will be recreated.

The program includes eight key areas:

• national games of the peoples of the world;


• horse racing;


• competitions on horseback;


• national wrestling styles;


• traditional strength competitions;


• intellectual games;


• traditional archery;


• national hunting games with birds and dogs.

Kazybek Moldazhiyev noted that “equestrian sports are the heart of the World Nomad Games; they embody the lifestyle and worldview of nomadic peoples, invariably attracting the attention of both spectators and international media.”

Special attention will be given to the International Ethnic Festival, which will feature representatives from 40 countries. Guests will be offered ethno-hits, ethno-fashion, ethno-dances, and traditional arts. Evening concerts are also planned throughout the week.

“Participants and spectators will not only be able to watch the competitions but also immerse themselves in the unique culture of the nomads, getting to know their traditions, values, and way of life,” added Nursultan Adenov.