Kyrgyzstan is preparing to host one of the largest cultural and sporting events in the region — the World Nomad Games 2026. According to The Times of Central Asia, the opening ceremony will take place on August 31 in Bishkek, while the final competitions will be held on September 6 on the picturesque shores of Lake Issyk-Kul.
A Global Gathering
Organisers expect delegations from more than 89 countries worldwide. For each nation, this will be a unique opportunity to present their cultural heritage, traditions, and athletic mastery on an international stage. The World Nomad Games have already established themselves as a platform for cultural dialogue, uniting nations through shared values and ancient traditions.
Program Highlights
The competition program will feature some of the most spectacular disciplines reflecting the nomadic spirit:
Horseback riding — the symbol of freedom and the steppes;
Archery — an ancient martial art;
Traditional wrestling — a test of strength and endurance;
Games with hunting birds — a showcase of the unique tradition of eagle hunters;
Competitions with Taigan dogs — demonstrating the loyalty and skill of hunting companions.
Why It Matters
The World Nomad Games are not only about sports but also a celebration of culture. Visitors will enjoy vibrant ethno-shows, concerts, craft fairs, and national cuisine, immersing themselves in the nomadic way of life and experiencing Kyrgyz hospitality.
Kyrgyzstan Welcomes the World
With its colourful opening and closing ceremonies, competitions set against the backdrop of the majestic Tien Shan mountains, and the crystal-clear waters of Issyk-Kul, the Games promise to be a truly global event. Kyrgyzstan once again confirms its role as the heart of nomadic culture and an international tourism hub.
Join the Adventure!
Be part of the World Nomad Games 2026 experience in Kyrgyzstan. Contact us at aisha@kyrgyzstan-tourism.com to participate or book your trip today.
Program of the VI World Nomad Games — Day by Day
August 30, 2026 — Arrival Day
Location: Bishkek City
Arrival of delegations from participating countries via Manas International Airport and Bishkek Railway Station.
Transfer and accommodation in designated hotels across Bishkek.
Accreditation of participants and distribution of badges at the official accreditation center and at arrival/accommodation sites.
August 31, 2026 — Opening Ceremony
Location: Bishkek City
Official Opening Ceremony of the VI World Nomad Games.
A vibrant celebration showcasing the spirit, traditions, and unity of nomadic nations from around the world.
September 1, 2026 — Transfer to Issyk-Kul
Locations: Bishkek → Cholpon-Ata City
Transfer of accredited delegations and participants from Bishkek to Cholpon-Ata (Issyk-Kul region).
Accommodation and orientation at official hotels.
Weigh-in of participants in sports disciplines and the work of the Mandate Commission.
Refereeing seminars and coordination meetings.
September 2, 2026 — Competitions and Festival Launch
Locations:
Hippodrome, Cholpon-Ata — Kok Boru (traditional horseback game).
Gazprom Sports Complex — Alysh (belt wrestling).
Rukh Ordo Cultural Center — Tayak Tartysh (mas-wrestling), Toguz Korgool, Mangala, Owari.
Opening Ceremony of the “Universe of Nomads” International Ethno-Festival (evening).
Opening of the International Scientific and Practical Conference (scientific program of the Games).
Ethno Village —
Grand Opening Ceremony (morning).
Demonstration games representing the cultural heritage of nomadic peoples.
September 3, 2026 — Full Competition Day
Locations:
Hippodrome — Kok Boru, Long-Distance Horse Racing.
Gazprom Sports Complex — Kazakh Kuresi, Kyrgyz Kurosh.
Rukh Ordo Cultural Center — Armwrestling, Toguz Korgool, Mangala, Owari.
Continuation of the “Universe of Nomads” Ethno-Festival (evening).
Ethno Village — Traditional contests: Ordo, Tug of War, Breaking the Vertebral Bone, Eagle Hunting (Burkut Saluu), Dalba, Kush Saluu, Taigan Race, and archery disciplines (Kyrgyz, Turkish, and Hungarian styles).
Open for visitors throughout the day.
September 4, 2026 — Ongoing Competitions
Locations:
Hippodrome — Kok Boru.
Gazprom Sports Complex — Kurash, Sambo.
Rukh Ordo Cultural Centre — Toguz Korgool, Mangala, Owari.
Evening continuation of the “Universe of Nomads” Festival.
Ethno Village — Ordo, Tug of War, Breaking the Vertebral Bone, archery demonstrations, and horseback archery shows (Kyrgyz and Hungarian).
Open to all visitors.
September 5, 2026 — Peak Event Day
Locations:
Hippodrome — Kok Boru, Er Enish (horseback wrestling), Flat Horse Racing, Kunan Chabysh, Byshy Jorgo.
Gazprom Sports Complex — Ashyrtmaly Aba Gureshi, Guresh, Gushtini Milli Kamarbandi, Gyulesh, Pahlavani, Ssirim, Sumo.
Rukh Ordo Cultural Center — Toguz Korgool, Mangala, Owari.
Closing Ceremony of the “Universe of Nomads” Ethno-Festival (evening).
Completion of the Scientific and Practical Conference.
Ethno Village — Ordo, Strongman Competition, and various demonstration games.
Closing Ceremony of the Ethno Village (evening).
September 6, 2026 — Grand Finale
Locations:
Hippodrome — Kok Boru, Er Enish, Jorgo Salysh, and the final horse racing events.
Official Closing Ceremony of the VI World Nomad Games — a majestic celebration honouring all participants and cultural delegations.
Gazprom Sports Complex — The Great Struggle of Nomads (final combat showcase).
Rukh Ordo Cultural Center — Toguz Korgool, Mangala, Owari.
September 7, 2026 — Departure Day
Location: Cholpon-Ata → Bishkek City
Departure of international delegations through Manas International Airport and Bishkek Railway Station.
Farewell ceremonies and completion of the VI World Nomad Games.
