Qymyz Fest 2026 revives ancient Kazakh traditions in vibrant celebration

An open-air ethnic festival, Qymyz Fest – Қымызмұрындық 2026, was held on Moscow Street in the capital. The event celebrated the revival of the ancient Kazakh tradition of Қымызмұрындық, aiming to promote national values and cultural ties between generations. The festival opened with a theatrical reenactment of the Қымызмұрындық tradition. This was followed by a ceremony offering national dishes and kymyz to attendees.

Guests enjoyed free kymyz tastings and explored a fair featuring traditional drinks and cuisine. A crafts exhibition also took place, where grandmothers led spinning workshops using traditional drop spindles.

National sports competitions were a highlight of the event. These included togyz kumalak, asyk atu, lyanga, braid-plaiting, and zhilik syndyru. Veterans, members of the Active Longevity Center, representatives of the public association Yelorda Aksakaldary, and local residents all joined in the games.

Kenzhebolat Bapishev, director of the Saryarka District Active Longevity Center, stated that the main goal was to popularise ancestral customs among younger generations. Kulmash Tolenbaikyzy, a retired educator, added that Қымызмұрындық is one of the ancient traditions that has endured alongside the Kazakh people.

At the end of the festival, winners and active participants in the traditional games received diplomas, medals, and certificates of appreciation. The festival brought together people of all ages to experience and honour Kazakh heritage. Through competitions, workshops, and tastings, it reinforced the importance of preserving cultural traditions for future generations.