Kostanay's Nauryz festival blends ancient traditions with futuristic tech

Kostanay celebrated Nauryz with a mix of tradition and modern technology. The festival featured everything from drone displays to virtual reality experiences. Across the city, residents and visitors enjoyed food, performances, and interactive exhibits.

The heart of the celebrations took place on Kostanay's main square, where an ethno-village of 26 yurts was set up. Inside, people sampled traditional Kazakh dishes, including freshly made baursaks and over 500 litres of Nauryz köje. Seven venues across the city also served festive meals.

A drone exhibition added a high-tech touch to the event. Aerial and aquatic models flew above the square, drawing crowds. Nearby, a VR yurt let visitors step into a digital version of the Kazakh steppe, complete with a virtual yurt tour. Another highlight was the Digital Yurt, where a 3D printer crafted items in a traditional style. The space showcased how modern tools can blend with cultural heritage. Alongside these exhibits, live concerts, theatre shows, and ethnic sports competitions kept the festival lively.

This year's Nauryz in Kostanay combined old and new, from centuries-old dishes to cutting-edge tech. The drone displays, VR experiences, and 3D-printed crafts marked a fresh approach to the festival. Organisers provided no details on how these innovations might evolve in future celebrations.