Kazakhstan's Ykymyzmärendyk Festival Celebrates Tradition with Global Flair

The Ykymyzmärendyk festival has begun in Kazakhstan’s Kegen District, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world. This year’s event celebrates the first batch of kumis after herds arrive at summer pastures. It also marks the 368th anniversary of Kazakh philosopher and bi Alimerek Zhanyshuly. An ethnocultural village of over a hundred white yurts has been set up for the occasion. The festival features traditional sports like Qoshqar ketsi, Tuye paluan, arm wrestling, togyz kumalak, tug-of-war, chess, and Tolasai. Republican competitions and a commemorative as (ritual feast) are also part of the programme.

Horse races play a central role, with the winner of the alaman-baiga race awarded a JETOUR car. Malyk Otarbayev, an advisor to Kazakhstan’s President, opened the event on behalf of the Head of State. He highlighted the importance of preserving national values and promoting ancestral traditions as key state priorities.

The Karakara Plateau, where the festival takes place, has grown into a well-known tourist brand for Almaty Region. Starting in 2026, Ykymyzmärendyk will be officially included in the national calendar of cultural events for the first time. The festival brings together cultural heritage, sport, and celebration. Its inclusion in the national calendar next year will further raise its profile. The event continues to attract international attention while honouring Kazakh traditions.