Kyrgyzstan is the homeland of one of the most ancient Turkic-speaking nations of the world – the Kyrgyz . A centuries-old, nomadic way of life; a history filled with momentous and dramatic events; the network of routes which made up the Great Silk Road – these have all resulted in the emergence of a unique and multi-faceted culture. Today, travellers can experience part of the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kyrgyzstan, by attending one of the many Cultural Festivals which are conducted in the Republic.

Horse games . Horses, along with hunting dogs, have always played a huge role in the daily life of the Kyrgyz. They are thought of, not only as thoroughbred racers, but also as true assistants in the daily life of the household. The majority of the rural population in the country, even today, follow a semi-nomadic way of life. Almost everyone, to a man, is able to ride a horse and the numerous types of horse games that have developed over the course of time, give a fine opportunity for them to show their skills, dexterity and fast reactions.
In 2005 Festivals of Horse Games will be held in Cholpon-Ata (by the shores of Lake Issyk Kul) and, at the end of August, at Sarala Saz, which is a high-mountain pasture (in Kyrgyz – “jailoo”), about 64km from the village of Kochkor, in the Naryn region.
Traditional horse games which will be featured include: Ulak Tartysh – which involves two teams of riders “battling” over a goat's carcass; Kyz Kuumai – where a horseman should catch a horsewoman so that he can receive a kiss as his prize; and Kurosh – wrestling on horseback. In addition there are such games, as Tyiyn Enmei – where the rider tries to pick up a coin from the ground, at full gallop; At Chabysh – straight forward races, and many others. All of these games have arisen as a result of centuries-old traditions and they reflect the vital importance to the Kyrgyz of riding in past times.
Traditional Crafts . Ancient traditions and customs; the variety of flora and fauna; scenes taken from everyday life and historical events – are all reflected in traditional, national, crafts. Kyrgyzstan is renowned for high-quality products made from felt. The peak of this art form is generally considered to be the boz ui (or yurta – the round, felt, dwellings used by nomads down through the centuries). A Felt Festival is held on the last Saturday of July every year.
Thematic Festivals . The national and cultural heritage of the Kyrgyz has been influenced by many factors over the course time such as: the landscape and the climate , and the interaction with other peoples in the region. Those who are interested in history and archeology might like to visit the Saimaluu Tash Festival. Saimaluu Tash is the largest gallery of stone paintings (petroglyphs ) , which is found in Southern Kyrgyzstan, on a plateau of the Fergana Mountain Range. The site houses a huge accumulation of drawings which date from the Iron and Early Bronze Ages, depicting hunting scenes, images of animals and people, signs and symbols.
The Birds of Prey Festival is devoted to golden eagles and falcons which are revered by the Kyrgyz. Since Ancient times, hunters have caught young chicks and taken them home, to bring them up and train them to hunt animals. In past times, one bird of prey could support a small settlement. Hence a Golden Eagle, or a falcon, were highly esteemed and were frequently treated as members of the family. People practiced in the art of training birds of prey are called “Berkutchi” and are treated with great respect.

For the detailed information on any of these Festivals you can contact any tour company, for example: «Celestial Mountains», «Novinomad», or the office of “Hospitality Kyrgyzstan”, (The Kyrgyz Community Based Tourism Association), in Bishkek. The organizers will be glad to see you and to help, if necessary, with accommodation, meals, transport, translation services and / or guides.

Learn more about the country, and experience the warmth and depth of the celebrated traditions of Kyrgyz hospitality, by visiting these festivals.

Calendar of cultural actions of Kyrgyzstan