Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival

What Is Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival?

The Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival, observed on 14th July, is a designated public holiday in Mongolia. It forms part of the country’s broader Naadam celebration, which is Mongolia’s most significant national festival. This day continues the spirit of the “Three Manly Games” – Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery – alongside other cultural activities.

The Naadam Festival primarily commemorates the 1921 Mongolian Revolution, which declared Mongolia’s independence. It serves as a profound expression of Mongolian identity, showcasing traditional customs, athleticism, and national pride. The Fourth Day, following the main opening ceremonies and initial competitions, allows for ongoing festivities throughout the nation.

History and Origins of Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival

The Naadam Festival has ancient roots, predating the modern Mongolian state. Its origins are often traced back to military parades, wartime gatherings, and hunting expeditions where warriors would compete in wrestling, archery, and horsemanship. These events served to train soldiers and maintain combat readiness.

Over centuries, these competitive gatherings evolved into annual celebrations of skill and strength among nomadic communities. After Mongolia’s 1921 revolution, Naadam was officially established as an annual state festival. It was fixed to commemorate the independence from Chinese rule and the formation of the modern Mongolian state. The official public holiday period for Naadam was later extended, including the Fourth Day (14th July) and Fifth Day (15th July), to allow for more widespread participation and regional observances.

How Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival Is Celebrated

On the Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival, celebrations continue across Mongolia, both in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, and in provincial towns and rural areas. While the grand opening ceremony and major finals of the “Three Manly Games” might have concluded on earlier days, many local Naadam festivals (referred to as “sum” or “aimag” Naadams) often schedule their key events during this extended period.

Activities typically include the continuation of various competitions, such as additional horse races, smaller wrestling tournaments, or archery rounds. Families and friends often use this day to gather, share traditional foods like khuushuur (meat dumplings) and airag (fermented mare’s milk), and enjoy cultural performances. Many people also visit temples or attend local cultural events, extending the festive atmosphere beyond the initial main days. It is a time for communal enjoyment and the reinforcement of national traditions.

Regional Variations in Celebration

While the primary Naadam festival is held in Ulaanbaatar, every aimag (province) and sum (district) organises its own version of the festival. These local Naadams often commence or run concurrently with, or shortly after, the national festival. Therefore, on the Fourth Day, while Ulaanbaatar may be winding down some of its larger events, many regional areas are in full swing with their own competitions and celebrations. This ensures that the spirit of Naadam permeates across the entire country, allowing rural communities to showcase their local champions and traditions.

When Is Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival?

The Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival is observed annually on 14th July. This date is fixed according to the Gregorian calendar. It is part of the extended Naadam public holiday period in Mongolia, which officially runs from 11th July to 15th July each year.

The main Naadam festivities typically begin on 11th July with an elaborate opening ceremony. The “Three Manly Games” — wrestling, horse racing, and archery — are held over the subsequent days. The Fourth Day (14th July) and Fifth Day (15th July) serve as continuation days for cultural events, local competitions, and general national holiday observances.

Fourth Day of the Naadam Festival Key Facts