Kazakhstan's BaiQymyz Festival Draws Record Crowds for Fermented Mare's Milk Celebration

The BaiQymyz festival in Karakalinsk drew over 20,000 visitors this year to celebrate kumis, Kazakhstan’s traditional fermented mare’s milk. Nearly 30 tons of the drink were brought in by producers from across the country. The event has quickly become a major attraction for both locals and tourists alike. The festival showcased a mix of cultural activities and competitions. Traditional Kazakh dishes were served alongside folk games like kokpar, baiga, and audaryspak, while archery demonstrations also took place. Free shuttle buses from Karaganda made it easier for attendees to reach Karakalinsk, boosting visitor numbers.

At the heart of the event was the Best Kumis contest, featuring 37 finalists vying for the title of the nation’s top kumis maker. Judging was split between a panel of experts and festivalgoers, with the winner set to be announced in the evening. The total prize pool reached 10 million tenge, with the first-place winner taking home 5 million. Events like BaiQymyz are playing a growing role in promoting domestic tourism. By blending tradition with entertainment, the festival has turned Karakalinsk into a sought-after destination.

The winner of the Best Kumis contest will be revealed later today. With a record turnout and expanded activities, the festival has reinforced its status as a key cultural and economic event for the region. Organisers expect its influence on tourism to keep growing in the coming years.