Mongolia
THOUSAND CAMEL FESTIVAL
Date: February 15-16, 08
Held in the south of Mongolia in the Gobi Desert, the renowned “Thousand Camel Festival” is organized by a local non-governmental organization working to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population, which has been steadily decreasing over the past twelve years. This unique festival allows travellers an opportunity to interact with and learn first-hand about these amazing animals and the nomadic lifestyle. Highlights of the festival include camel races (performances by traditional Mongolian musicians and dancers) and visits to significant paleontological and cultural sites of the Gobi. It is a chance to witness the speed and agility of Bactrian camels, watch performances by traditional Mongolian musicians and dancers and visit to significant paleontological and cultural sites in the Gobi.
The GREAT NAADAM FESTIVAL
Date: July 11-12, 08
The biggest and most joyful celebration for Mongolians, Naadam festival takes place on the 11-12th of July each year. The festival originated from the era of Khunnu Empire. It was originally held as a contest to test the skills of Mongolian Warriors of different tribes. The festival includes the “Three Manly Sports”: wrestling, horse racing and archery. A highlight of the event is a parade in which the 9 White Flags of Chinghis Khan are carried from the State Parliament House to the Central Stadium. Between 512-1024 wrestlers compete on the green field of the State Central Stadium-there is no time limit, no weight category. Six different categories of horse racing are held according to the age of horses. The riders are boys and girls aged between 7-12 and the distance of the race ranges from 15 to 30 km. Archery, originating from time immemorial, is the oldest sport of the Mongols. Traditionally, this was only men’s sport but nowadays both men and women compete in separate divisions.
GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL
Date: October 4-5, 08
Venue: Ulgii, Bayan Ulgii province
Kazakhs are renowned for their unique and extraordinary skill in using Golden Eagles to hunt small prey. The Golden Eagle Festival is organized to help revive this remarkable tradition and educate the younger generations to balance the preservation of Mongolia’s past traditions with conservation of nature and the modern demands of a growing population. Arranged by locals who are committed to preserving traditional Kazakh heritage, the festival will have to 60 Kazakh participants and their magnificent Golden Eagles. Experience the sight of Kazakhs on horseback, dressed in their traditional dark coats and scarlet hats, with Golden Eagles hovering on their arms.
http://www.selenatravel.com/tours/mongolia/mongolia_events_festivals.html