Second Day of the Naadam Festival

What Is Second Day of the Naadam Festival?

The Second Day of the Naadam Festival, observed on 12th July, marks the continuation of Mongolia’s most significant national festival. It is a day dedicated to the ongoing traditional sports competitions that form the core of Naadam. Following the ceremonial opening on 11th July, this second day sees the intense progression and often the finals of the ‘three manly games’: Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

This public holiday is central to Mongolia’s cultural identity, bringing together communities from across the nation. It serves as a celebration of heritage, skill, and the enduring spirit of the Mongolian people. Families and friends gather to witness these ancient contests, which have roots stretching back centuries.

History and Origins of Second Day of the Naadam Festival

The Naadam Festival itself boasts a history spanning hundreds, if not thousands, of years, evolving from ancient military assemblies, hunting gatherings, and tribal competitions. These events were historically used to train warriors, test skills, and provide entertainment. The ‘three manly games’ – wrestling, horse racing, and archery – were integral to the nomadic lifestyle and military prowess of historical Mongolian empires.

Following Mongolia’s 1921 national revolution, Naadam was formalised as an annual state festival. It was re-established to commemorate the revolution’s anniversary and celebrate national independence. The current two-day structure, with the 11th and 12th July as the primary dates, emerged from this modern recognition of the festival’s importance. The Second Day, therefore, represents the historical continuity of these traditional contests within the framework of a modern national celebration.

How Second Day of the Naadam Festival Is Celebrated

On the Second Day of the Naadam Festival, the capital city of Ulaanbaatar and provincial centres buzz with activity as the core sporting events unfold. The day’s schedule is packed with the continuation of the ‘three manly games’. Wrestling bouts, which began on the first day, reach their dramatic conclusions, with thousands of spectators watching the powerful grapplers compete for the coveted titles of “Hawk” or “Lion.”

Horse racing, an event where child jockeys ride over vast distances across the steppe, sees its critical heats and final races on this day. The different age categories of horses complete their arduous courses, and the winning jockeys and trainers are celebrated. Archery competitions, featuring both men’s and women’s categories, also continue, showcasing precision and traditional techniques with composite bows. Beyond the organised sports, people partake in communal meals, wear traditional clothing (Deel), and enjoy cultural performances and music.

When Is Second Day of the Naadam Festival?

The Second Day of the Naadam Festival is consistently observed on 12th July each year. It is a fixed date within the Gregorian calendar. This date immediately follows the Opening Ceremony and the initial rounds of competitions held on 11th July. The festival is a public holiday across Mongolia, ensuring widespread participation and observance. While the main national Naadam takes place on these two days, smaller, local Naadam festivals, known as ‘Aimag Naadam’ or ‘Soum Naadam’, occur in various provinces and districts throughout July and August, allowing for more localised celebrations of these cherished traditions.

Second Day of the Naadam Festival Key Facts