The 34th Naadam Festival of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region will begin on July 14 in the grasslands of Xilingol League, the region's culture and tourism department announced.
"Naadam," a Mongolian term meaning "entertainment and games," is a traditional festival celebrated by people of the Mongolian ethnic group in China. This annual event held during the peak harvest season, features a variety of activities such as horse racing, wrestling, archery, board games, and song and dance performances that reflect the rich ethnic heritage of the local people.
A man performs stunts on horseback during the Naadam Festival held in Hinggan League, Inner Mongolia, in 2023. /CFP
This year, the organizers are focusing on enhancing visitor engagement and interaction by inviting tourists to be the central focus of the opening ceremony. Special slots have been reserved for visitors to join the opening parade, making them an integral part of the festivities.
Women dance during the Naadam Festival held in Hinggan League, Inner Mongolia, in 2023. /CFP
The main venue will feature traditional Xilingol cuisine, games and various other attractions. More than 10 medical emergency points will also be set up, staffed by professional rescue teams and 300 volunteers, to ensure a safe and memorable experience for all participants in the grasslands.